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Amalgam Fillings

A silver amalgam filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc.  The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a silver filling.

There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.  You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth.  Amalgam fillings, along with composite (tooth colored) fillings, are the most widely used today.  An amalgam filling is more commonly used in the back teeth since the color is less visually appealing than a composite filling.

As with most dental restorations, amalgam fillings are not permanent and may someday need replacement.  They are very durable, and will last many years, giving you a long lasting smile.

Reasons for amalgam fillings:

  • Cracked or broken teeth.
  • Decayed teeth.
  • Worn teeth.

What does getting an amalgam filling involve?

Amalgam fillings are usually placed in one appointment.  While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as necessary.  The space will then be thoroughly cleansed and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed.  If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection.  The silver filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.

It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when amalgam fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.

You will be given post-care instructions at the completion of your treatment.  Proper oral hygiene, good eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.

Frequently Asked Questions
Amalgam Fillings, TX

Amalgam remains a popular choice because it is exceptionally strong, long-lasting (often 10 to 15+ years), affordable, and well-suited for areas of the mouth that bear heavy chewing pressure. It is also easier to place in difficult-to-access locations and in situations where keeping the area completely dry during the procedure is challenging. For many back-tooth restorations, amalgam is still considered an excellent option.
Yes. The American Dental Association (ADA), the FDA, the World Health Organization, and the Centers for Disease Control all consider amalgam fillings safe and effective for the general population. While amalgam contains mercury, the mercury is bound to the other metals in a stable form. Decades of research show that amalgam fillings do not pose health risks for most patients.
The mercury in amalgam fillings is chemically bound to the other metals, which makes it stable and very different from the free mercury found in some environmental sources. Major health and dental organizations agree that the small amount of mercury released from amalgam fillings is well below levels that could cause harm. However, the FDA does suggest considering alternatives for certain high-risk groups, such as pregnant or nursing women, young children, and people with mercury sensitivity.
With proper care, amalgam fillings typically last 10 to 15 years, and many last even longer — often 20 years or more. Their durability comes from the strength of the metal alloy, which holds up exceptionally well under the heavy forces of chewing. Regular dental checkups help us monitor your fillings and address any wear before it becomes a problem.
The main advantages include excellent strength and durability, longer lifespan than many other filling materials, lower cost than tooth-colored alternatives, faster placement, less sensitivity to moisture during placement, and a strong track record going back more than 150 years. For molars and other heavy-chewing areas, amalgam continues to be one of the most reliable options.
The most common drawbacks are cosmetic — amalgam is silver-colored and noticeable when you smile or open your mouth. Other potential drawbacks include the need to remove some healthy tooth structure to hold the filling in place, slight metal expansion and contraction with temperature changes (which can occasionally lead to cracks over time), and very rare allergic reactions. Some patients also prefer mercury-free alternatives for personal reasons.
Yes, amalgam fillings have a silver-gray color that contrasts with natural tooth enamel and can be visible when you laugh, talk, or open wide. For this reason, many patients prefer tooth-colored composite (white) fillings for front teeth or any restoration in a visible area. Amalgam is most often used for back teeth where appearance matters less.
Yes. If you’d prefer a more natural-looking smile or are simply ready to update older fillings, we can replace amalgam fillings with composite (tooth-colored) restorations. Replacement is also recommended if a filling becomes cracked, leaks, or shows signs of decay underneath. We’ll discuss the right time to replace based on the condition of each filling.
The major health organizations agree that removing intact, well-functioning amalgam fillings is not necessary for health reasons in most patients. In fact, unnecessary removal can release more mercury vapor and remove healthy tooth structure. However, if a filling is damaged, leaking, or causing problems — or if you have specific medical concerns — replacement may be appropriate. We’re happy to discuss the right approach for you.
The FDA recommends that pregnant or nursing women, women planning pregnancy, infants and children under 6, people with neurological conditions or impaired kidney function, and individuals with mercury allergies or sensitivities consider alternatives to amalgam when possible. For these patients, we may recommend composite or ceramic restorations instead.
No. We use local anesthesia to completely numb the area before placing any filling, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. After the anesthesia wears off, some patients experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days, which usually resolves on its own. If discomfort persists, contact our office.
Take care of them the same way you care for the rest of your teeth. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, avoid chewing on extremely hard objects (like ice or hard candies), and visit us every six months for checkups and cleanings. With good care, your amalgam fillings can last for many years.
While amalgam is one of the most durable filling materials, it can occasionally crack, chip, or come loose — especially in older fillings or under heavy biting forces. If a filling breaks, falls out, or feels rough or uneven, contact us right away. Prompt repair prevents further damage to the tooth.
The most common alternatives are composite (tooth-colored) fillings, porcelain or ceramic inlays and onlays, and gold fillings. Composite fillings are the most popular alternative because they match the color of natural teeth, bond directly to the tooth structure, and require less drilling. We’re happy to discuss the pros and cons of each option to help you choose what’s best for your tooth and budget.