What Type of Filling Material Should I Get?

May 25, 2026

Fillings for teeth can be done in several different materials including white composite resin (composite), silver amalgam, gold, and porcelain. Your dentist can help you decide which is the best option for your tooth. Here is a quick guide to the two most commonly used filling materials.

Material
Benefits
Downsides
Composite
  • White colour
  • One appointment
  • Bonds to tooth
  • Lasts from 5-15 years
  • May release Bisphenol A (BPA)
  • Higher chance of new decay
  • more expensive than amalgam
Amalgam
  • Least expensive
  • Lasts 10-40 years
  • less chance of new decay
  • Silver colour
  • Contains mercury

Silver Amalgam Fillings

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