If you’ve been told you need a filling; or you still have older silver fillings from years ago; you may be wondering which option is best for your smile. At our dental clinic in Guelph, patients regularly ask about the differences between white and metal fillings, whether amalgam is still safe, and when it makes sense to replace older restorations.
This guide covers everything you need to know so you can make a confident, informed decision about your dental care.
What Are Dental Fillings?
A dental filling is a restorative material used to repair a tooth damaged by decay, fracture, or wear. When bacteria break down enamel and create a cavity, the decayed portion is removed and the space is filled to restore the tooth’s shape, function, and strength.
Without treatment, cavities can deepen and eventually reach the tooth’s inner pulp, leading to infection, pain, or tooth loss. A filling stops that progression and seals the tooth against further bacteria.
Fillings are commonly used to:
- Treat cavities caused by decay
- Repair cracked or chipped teeth
- Restore surfaces worn down by grinding (bruxism)
- Replace old or broken-down restorations
- Reshape teeth for cosmetic reasons
The two most common filling materials are metal (amalgam) and white (composite); and each comes with its own set of trade-offs.
Metal (Amalgam) Fillings
Amalgam fillings have been used in dentistry for over 100 years. Made from a blend of silver, tin, copper, and mercury, they became the standard for back-tooth restorations because of their durability, wear resistance, and relatively low cost.
They remain a reliable option for large cavities in molars where chewing forces are greatest. However, their silver colour is visible when you open your mouth, and many patients today prefer a mercury-free alternative; which is where composite fillings come in.
White (Composite) Fillings
Composite fillings are made from a tooth-coloured resin that bonds directly to the tooth structure. This bonding means less healthy tooth material needs to be removed during placement; a more conservative approach compared to amalgam.
Key advantages include:
- A natural appearance that blends with your enamel
- No mercury in the material
- Strong adhesion that helps reinforce the tooth
- A great choice for visible or front teeth
Modern composites are significantly stronger than earlier versions, making them suitable for most cavities; not just cosmetic cases.
Which Is Better; White or Metal?
For most patients, white fillings are the preferred choice, particularly for visible teeth or when preserving tooth structure is a priority. That said, there’s no single right answer: the best material depends on the size and location of the cavity, your bite, and your goals.
Composite tends to work best for smaller-to-medium cavities, front teeth, and patients who want a metal-free option. Amalgam may still be worth considering for very large restorations on back molars, where its strength and longevity can be an advantage. Your dentist can walk you through the trade-offs for your specific situation.
Are Metal Fillings Safe?
This is one of the most common questions we hear. According to the Canadian Dental Association and Health Canada, amalgam fillings are generally considered safe for most people; the mercury in amalgam is bound to other metals and behaves differently from the mercury found in environmental contaminants.
That said, some patients prefer to avoid amalgam for personal or health reasons, or choose to replace old fillings that are cracked, leaking, or surrounded by new decay. We’re happy to discuss your existing restorations and help you decide whether anything needs attention.
Should You Replace Your Silver Fillings?
Not necessarily. A stable amalgam filling that is intact and decay-free may last for many more years with no issues. Routine monitoring at your dental checkups is usually all that’s needed.
Replacement is worth considering if your filling is cracked or damaged, if there’s new decay forming around it, if the tooth has fractured, or if you’re bothered by the appearance. We use x-rays and a clinical exam to assess whether a filling should stay or be replaced; we’ll never recommend removal unless there’s a clear reason.
How Long Do White Fillings Last?
Modern composite fillings typically last years, and often longer with good oral hygiene and regular checkups. Longevity is influenced by the size of the restoration, where it sits in your mouth, whether you grind your teeth, and your diet.
Catching minor wear early, before it becomes a bigger problem, is one of the key reasons regular dental visits matter.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Whether you’re getting a filling for the first time, considering replacing older amalgam work, or simply want to understand your choices, our team at Family Dental Centre Guelph is here to help. We take the time to explain your options clearly so you can choose the treatment that fits your health goals and lifestyle.
Book an appointment today and let’s find the right solution for your smile.
