Fillings are used to repair a cavity in your tooth caused by decay.
Historically, the two most frequently used materials to restore teeth affected by caries are, silver(amalgam) and composites.

Dental amalgam has saved countless teeth over the more than 150 years it’s been in use. It’s strong and relatively cheap, but it’s ugly.

Amalgam is also being phased out worldwide from both ecological and environmental standpoints.

We do not provide amalgam restorations in this practice.
Composite restorations require the removal of less tooth structure, look more like teeth and they are actually bonded to the tooth structure.
However, they are much more difficult to place well. They require much drier conditions and take a lot longer to place correctly. When done with care they are beautiful and quite durable.

Q. Can I replace my silver fillings with white ones?
A. For over 150 years standard fillings have been made out of a silvery-grey material called amalgam. This is still one of the strongest and longest-lasting materials available for fillings. However, many people find it unattractive and some are concerned about possible health and environmental risks.
There are now alternatives to amalgam fillings, which may be suitable for use in some situations. The new dental materials mean it is much easier to find a perfect match for the shade of a particular tooth. In most cases, it is quite impossible to see the tooth even has a filling.

Q. Why should I consider white fillings?
A. Most people have fillings of one sort or another in their mouths. Nowadays fillings are not only functional but can be natural looking as well. Many people don’t want silver fillings that show when they laugh or smile because they are more conscious about the way they look.

Q. Are they as good as silver amalgam fillings?
A. White fillings have always been considered less long lasting than silver amalgam fillings. But there are now new materials available with properties comparable to silver amalgam, and these are proving to be very successful. The life expectancy of a white filling can depend greatly on where it is in your mouth and how heavily your teeth come together when you bite. You will be advised on the suitability of your mouth for these new restorations.

Q. Is it worth replacing my amalgam fillings with white ones?
A. It is usually best to change fillings only when an old filling needs replacing. If this is the case, you can ask to have it replaced in a tooth coloured material.
It may not always be suitable to put white fillings in back teeth as they are not always successful. However, this would usually have the same limitations with amalgam and therefore crowns or onlays may be suggested as a better restoration to protect the tooth.