For decades, silver amalgam was the standard filling. Today, tooth‑colored composite is a popular choice. Here is how the two compare in plain terms.
Appearance and Bonding
The most visible difference is color. Amalgam is silver‑gray and noticeable, while composite is matched to your tooth and blends in. For teeth that show when you smile, this alone leads many patients toward composite.
Composite also bonds directly to the tooth, which can help your dentist conserve more natural structure. Amalgam relies on a shaped cavity to hold it in place, which sometimes means removing slightly more of the tooth.
Durability and Fit
Both materials are durable and have long track records. Amalgam is very hard‑wearing and has served patients well for generations, particularly on back teeth that take heavy chewing forces.
Composite has improved a great deal and holds up well for most everyday repairs. The right choice often depends on the size and location of the cavity, your bite, and your personal preferences.
Making the Decision Together
There is no single answer that fits everyone. The best filling depends on where the tooth sits, how large the repair is, and what matters most to you in terms of appearance and longevity.
At our Vancouver clinic we talk through these factors and give you an honest recommendation. The goal is a repair that protects the tooth and that you feel good about.
