Did you know that more than 90% of adults aged 20 to 64 have had at least one dental filling in their lifetime, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research?
This makes dental fillings one of the most common dental treatments not only in Houston but across the world. And yet, many patients don’t fully understand their options, especially when it comes to choosing between white dental fillings and silver (amalgam) fillings.
If you’re visiting the dentist and have a cavity that needs to be filled, this decision matters. Here we have explained the difference between white fillings and silver fillings to help you understand your options much more clearly.
What Are White dental Fillings and Silver Fillings?
To start with the basics:
- Also called composite fillings, white dental fillings are made of resin material that is exactly the color of a healthy tooth. White dental fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. White dental fillings are nearly invisible when smiling or talking.
- Silver fillings, also called amalgam fillings, are made from a mix of metals, usually mercury, silver, tin, and copper. For more than a century, they have been utilized in dentistry and have a gleaming, metallic appearance.
While both do the job of filling cavities and protecting the tooth, their differences go far beyond color.
Appearance: Do You Want Your Fillings to Show?
If your filling is going to be in a visible part of your mouth, like your front teeth or near the gum line, white dental fillings are often the preferred choice. They can be color-matched to your natural teeth, so no one will even know you’ve had a filling done.
Conversely, silver fillings are readily apparent when you smile or talk. For this reason, many patients opt to replace older silver fillings with white dental fillings, especially if they’re concerned about aesthetics.
Safety and Materials: What’s Inside Your Filling?
This is a concern for many patients.
Silver fillings contain mercury, which has led to debate over the years. The American Dental Association and many health agencies have confirmed that the small amount of mercury used in dental amalgam is considered safe for most people. However, some people still feel uneasy about it.
White dental fillings, in contrast, do not contain mercury or any metals. They’re made of composite resins that are biocompatible and safe for use in the body. If you prefer a mercury-free filling, white dental fillings are your go-to option.
Tooth Preservation: Less Drilling, More Tooth
When placing a silver filling, the dentist often needs to remove more of your natural tooth structure to hold the amalgam in place. This means more drilling, which may weaken the overall tooth in the long term.
With white dental fillings, less of your tooth needs to be removed. The material bonds directly to your tooth surface, allowing for a more conservative approach. This is one of the important things to know about white fillings
Sensitivity and Temperature
Silver fillings expand and contract with temperature changes in your mouth, which can cause small cracks or sensitivity over time. People who frequently consume hot and cold foods might notice discomfort around older amalgam fillings.
White dental fillings, being resin-based, don’t react to temperature changes in the same way. That means less sensitivity and a lower risk of cracks forming around the filling over time.
So, Which Filling Should You Choose?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your best choice depends on:
- Where the filling is located
- Your budget
- Aesthetic preferences
- Health concerns (like mercury sensitivity)
- Your dentist’s recommendation
If you value appearance, want a mercury-free solution, and don’t mind a slightly higher cost, white dental fillings are an excellent option. They offer a natural look, bond well to teeth, and preserve more of your original tooth structure.
If you need something durable for molars and don’t mind the metallic look, silver fillings can still be a practical and budget-friendly solution.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between white dental fillings and silver ones is more than a cosmetic decision. It’s about comfort, health, durability, and long-term oral care. The good news is that both options can serve you well when placed by a skilled dentist and maintained with proper hygiene.
If you’re still unsure, schedule a consultation. Your dentist can walk you through the pros and cons based on your unique dental needs. With the right guidance, you’ll make a choice that supports your smile now and in the years to come.
Are you looking for high-quality yet cost-effective white filling treatment in Houston? Get in touch with us at All Stars Dental. You can take a look at these Google reviews left by our previous clients to learn more about our services.