If you need a filling, you have options beyond the basic choice your parents had. Here is a clear breakdown of the most common filling materials, their trade-offs, and what guides the decision about which to use.
Composite Resin (Tooth-Coloured Fillings)
Composite resin fillings match the colour of natural teeth and bond directly to the tooth structure. They are the most aesthetically pleasing option and are the standard choice at Smileworks Dental for most cavities, particularly in visible areas. They require less removal of healthy tooth structure than amalgam. The trade-off: composite is more susceptible to staining over time and may not last quite as long in large cavities under heavy chewing forces.
Dental Amalgam (Silver Fillings)
Amalgam has been used for over 150 years and is extremely durable — especially in high-stress areas like back molars. It is also less expensive than tooth-coloured options. The downsides: it is visibly silver (though usually only visible in back teeth), requires removal of more tooth structure, and some patients prefer to avoid it due to its mercury content (though Health Canada considers dental amalgam safe for most patients).
Ceramic and Porcelain
For large cavities or restorations in very visible areas, ceramic inlays, onlays, or crowns offer excellent aesthetics and durability. These are fabricated in a dental laboratory to fit precisely and are bonded in place. They are the most expensive option but provide both strength and the most natural appearance.
Making the Right Choice
For most patients in most situations, tooth-coloured composite is the clear choice — excellent aesthetics, good durability, and minimal tooth removal. For very large restorations in high-stress areas, we may discuss ceramic or other options. Our team at Smileworks Dental will walk you through the best option for your specific tooth and situation.