Fillings · Patient education
White composite vs silver amalgam fillings
Compare filling materials and understand why a sound older filling does not automatically need replacement.
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Ghazala Zaid · 2026-09-13
The short answer
Composite is a tooth-coloured resin-based material; amalgam is a metal mixture that contains mercury. Choosing a new filling and deciding whether an existing filling needs replacement are two different decisions.
Compare at a glance
General differences, not a recommendation for your own treatment.
| What matters | Composite | Amalgam |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Tooth-coloured | Metallic |
| Composition | Resin with filler particles | Mercury combined with other metals |
| Conversation | Suitability for the size and position of the repair | Individual health considerations and alternatives |
Swipe the table sideways to compare all options.
A new filling is an individual decision
The repair’s size and location, appearance preferences and other clinical factors influence material choice. Ask which options your dentist offers and considers appropriate. A comparison page is not confirmation that a particular material is provided at this clinic.
The US FDA advises avoiding new amalgam where suitable alternatives are available for certain higher-risk groups, including people who are pregnant or nursing, young children, and people with certain neurological or kidney conditions or material sensitivities. Discuss your medical history with your treating dentist; US guidance is provided here as a source, not a substitute for Canadian clinical advice.
Do older silver fillings need to come out?
The FDA does not recommend removing sound amalgam fillings solely to prevent disease. Removal takes away some healthy tooth structure and temporarily increases mercury exposure. A broken filling, new decay or an individual medical concern requires its own assessment.
If replacement is proposed, ask for the specific reason. Separate a clinical problem from an appearance preference, and ask whether monitoring or a repair is reasonable. Request an explanation of the work involved before assuming a change of colour is a simple swap.
Take these questions to your dentist
Use this as a conversation checklist. You do not need to choose a treatment before your assessment.
- Is my existing filling damaged or is this an appearance choice?
- Which materials suit the size and location of this cavity?
- Do my health history or allergies affect the recommendation?
- Is repair possible, or is complete replacement needed?
Common questions
Does a dark filling prove there is decay underneath?
Colour alone is not a diagnosis. Ask what the examination or imaging shows and why intervention is recommended.
Can you quote a filling from a photo?
A photograph cannot establish the full repair needed. Ask for an examination and an estimate that identifies the tooth and proposed treatment.
Sources and review
Sources inform the general explanations above. They do not endorse this clinic or replace an individual examination. Material manufacturers are referenced for product identification, not independent claims of superiority.
Understand what makes sense for you.
Bring your questions to Cedarbrae Dental Center in Scarborough. We can assess your needs and discuss appropriate options. An appointment request is not a confirmed booking.