When it comes to dental fillings, there are two main options: silver (amalgam) fillings and white (composite) fillings. If you need a filling, you might be wondering which one is right for you.

At Chester Cosmetic & Dental Care, we want to ensure our patients make informed decisions about their dental treatments. In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between silver and white fillings, including their advantages, disadvantages, and which option might be best for your needs.

What Are Silver Fillings?

Silver fillings, also known as dental amalgam, have been used in dentistry for over a century. They are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper, and are commonly used for filling cavities in the back teeth.

Advantages of Silver Fillings:

• Long-lasting durability: Amalgam fillings can withstand strong chewing forces and last 10–15 years or more.

• Cost-effective: They are typically cheaper than white fillings, making them a budget-friendly option.

• Less moisture-sensitive: Amalgam is easier to place in areas where keeping the tooth completely dry is challenging, such as deep cavities or back molars.

Disadvantages of Silver Fillings:

• Noticeable appearance: The dark metallic colour makes them more visible when you smile or laugh.

• Potential for cracks: Over time, amalgam expands and contracts with temperature changes, which may increase the risk of cracks in the tooth.

• Mercury content: While studies indicate that the mercury in amalgam is stable and safe for most patients, some people prefer to avoid it.

What Are White Fillings?

White fillings, or composite resin fillings, are made from a tooth-coloured material that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. They are a popular choice for both front and back teeth due to their aesthetic appeal.

Advantages of White Fillings:

• Aesthetic and natural-looking: Composite fillings match your natural tooth colour, making them almost invisible.

• Stronger bond to the tooth: Composite material bonds directly to the tooth structure, often requiring less drilling than amalgam.

• Less risk of cracks: Unlike metal fillings, white fillings do not expand or contract with temperature changes, reducing the risk of tooth fractures.

Disadvantages of White Fillings:

• Less durable for large cavities: While strong, white fillings may wear down faster on back teeth with heavy chewing.

• Slightly more expensive: Composite fillings tend to cost more than amalgam fillings.

• More technique-sensitive: The filling requires a completely dry surface during placement, making the procedure more challenging in some cases.

Silver Fillings vs. White Fillings: Which One Should You Choose?

The best filling for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick comparison:

Appearance

• Silver Fillings: Dark, noticeable.

• White Fillings: Matches natural tooth colour.

Durability

• Silver Fillings: 10-15 years or more.

• White Fillings: 5-10 years, may need replacing sooner.

Cost

• Silver Fillings: Lower cost.

• White Fillings: Slightly more expensive.

Tooth Preservation

• Silver Fillings: Requires more drilling.

• White Fillings: Less invasive, bonds to the tooth.

Risk of Cracks

• Silver Fillings: May expand & contract.

• White Fillings: No expansion/contraction.

When to Choose Silver Fillings:

• You need a strong, cost-effective option for a back tooth and don’t mind the dark colour.

When to Choose White Fillings:

• You want an aesthetic, natural-looking filling that preserves more of your tooth structure.

At Chester Cosmetic & Dental Care, we primarily recommend white composite fillings for their natural appearance and long-term benefits. However, we understand that every patient is unique, and we’re happy to discuss your best options during your appointment.

Thinking About Replacing Your Silver Fillings?

Many patients ask whether they should replace their old silver fillings with white ones. The answer depends on their condition:

• If your silver fillings are still strong and intact, there is no urgent need to replace them.

• If you have cracks, leakage, or concerns about aesthetics, switching to white fillings could be beneficial.

Our expert dental team can assess your fillings and provide professional advice on whether a replacement is necessary.

Book Your Appointment Today

Whether you need a new filling or are considering replacing your old ones, our team at Chester Cosmetic & Dental Care is here to help. We use the latest dental materials to restore and protect your smile.