The Short Answer
Are tooth-colored fillings better than silver ones?
At Precision Dentistry of Olympia, Dr. Eric Xu uses tooth-colored composite fillings for most cavities instead of silver (amalgam). Composite is mercury-free and bonds to the tooth, so less healthy tooth has to be removed, while amalgam is about half mercury by weight, needs more drilling, and shows up as a dark spot. If you already have silver fillings in good shape, the FDA doesn’t recommend removing them just because they’re silver. Call (360) 995-0025 to book a visit.
Composite is also our first choice for replacing old mercury fillings. Silver fillings were the standard for well over a century, though, and they still do some things well.
Amalgam vs. Composite Fillings at a Glance
| Silver amalgam filling | Composite filling | |
|---|---|---|
| Made of | Mercury mixed with silver, tin, and copper | Tooth-colored resin with fine glass particles |
| How it stays in | Packed into a cavity shaped to lock it in place | Bonded to the tooth with an adhesive |
| Healthy tooth removed | More, to create that locking shape | Less, mostly just the decay |
| Appearance | Silver, darkens over time | Shaded to match your tooth |
| Typical lifespan | Can last 10 to 15 years or more | Can last 10 years or more with good care |
Why We Choose Composite
Less drilling
An amalgam filling has to be held in mechanically, so the cavity is shaped with undercuts that grip it, and that means removing healthy tooth along with the decay. Composite bonds to the enamel and dentin instead, so Dr. Xu can remove the decay and leave more of the tooth alone, and the bond seals the edges of the filling and helps support what’s left. That fits our conservative approach to dentistry.
Mercury-free
Composite contains no mercury. For patients who want to avoid it, or who fall into one of the groups the FDA says should avoid amalgam (more on that below), composite is the obvious choice.
It matches your tooth
Composite is shaded to blend in with the tooth around it. Our post on how composite fillings blend with your natural teeth goes into how we match and shape them.
Where Amalgam Still Holds Up
Amalgam’s main strength is durability. Research comparing the two has found that in large fillings on back teeth, amalgam tends to last as long as composite or longer. Composite is also more sensitive to technique: the tooth has to stay completely dry while it’s bonded, which is why careful placement matters so much.
Amalgam does have drawbacks beyond the color. Large silver fillings expand and contract with hot and cold, and over the years that can contribute to cracks in the tooth around them. They can also give the surrounding tooth a gray tint.
Are Silver Fillings Safe?
The FDA considers amalgam safe for most adults, but in 2020 it recommended that higher-risk groups get non-amalgam fillings when possible. That includes:
- People who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or nursing
- Young children
- People with existing kidney or neurological problems
- Anyone allergic or sensitive to mercury or the other metals in amalgam
The FDA also does not recommend removing amalgam fillings that are in good condition. Drilling one out removes more healthy tooth and briefly increases mercury vapor exposure.
Should You Replace Your Old Silver Fillings?
It makes sense to replace a silver filling when it’s cracked, leaking, or has decay underneath it, or when the tooth around it has started to crack. If you’re in one of the higher-risk groups above, that’s worth talking through with Dr. Xu too.
A small failing filling can usually be replaced with composite. If the old filling is large and there isn’t much tooth left around it, an inlay or onlay may be the stronger, more conservative repair.
What Our Patients Say
Dr. Xu is an exceptional dentist. I moved to Olympia a few months ago and needed an emergency extraction. He performed the procedure completely painlessly, which immediately gave me confidence in his skill and professionalism. Afterward, he created a comprehensive treatment plan, and I’ve since returned three more times for fillings. Every visit has been an outstanding experience. I especially appreciated that he used two different filling materials—a medicated base that continues to help protect and heal the tooth, followed by a durable outer composite filling. Taking the extra time to do what’s best for the long-term health of the tooth really impressed me. One thing that sets Dr. Xu apart is his commitment to continuous learning. He participates in a professional study group with other dentists where they regularly review cases, discuss techniques, and look for ways to improve. Even though he’s the best dentist I’ve ever had, he’s always striving to become even better, and that dedication shows in the quality of his work. The entire team is fantastic. Mandy and Sarah are calm, professional, and personable, and they always put me at ease. Matt at the front desk is equally outstanding—friendly, welcoming, and incredibly helpful. Thank you, Dr. Xu and the entire team, for providing such exceptional care. I couldn’t recommend your practice more highly.
If you are afraid to go to the dentist, this is the place you want to be. I had to go in because I thought I had a cavity. I don’t get cavities and I was really afraid when I went in there. They were so calm and professional. They treated me so gently. I cannot tell you how much I appreciated it. I cannot recommend these people highly enough.
The care I receive has been fantastic! They work with my insurance to get the most out of the coverage I have. Everyone is so pleasant that I almost look forward to going to the dentist.
Had chipped tooth and got immediate care, took full evaluation and did 3 fillings with 1 session. Excellent chair side manner and friendly helpful staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can composite be used on back teeth?
Yes. We use composite on front and back teeth, including the chewing surfaces of molars.
Do composite fillings stain?
The surface can pick up some stain over the years, especially from coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco. Regular cleanings and polishing help, and a filling that has darkened noticeably can be replaced.
How much does a filling cost without insurance?
It depends on the size of the filling and the tooth. Call us for current pricing. Our membership program takes 10% off fillings, and patients paying out of pocket without insurance or a membership plan get 5% off.
Have an Old Silver Filling You’re Unsure About?
Dr. Xu can check it with an intraoral camera and X-rays and let you know whether it’s still sound or should be replaced. Call (360) 995-0025 or request an appointment. We’re open Monday and Wednesday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 2728 Westmoor Court SW, Suite D, Olympia, WA 98502.