Thinking of Replacing Your Silver Fillings? Here’s Why You Should!

christy446
May 12, 2025
2 min read

Before and after transformation! Our lovley patient came in with a broken amalgam filling and chose to upgrade with a tooth-coloured composite- and what a difference it has made!

At Hermitage Dental Practice, we understand that a confident smile is about more than just healthy teeth — it’s about how you feel when you show them.

If you have old silver (amalgam) fillings, you may be wondering whether it’s time for a change. More and more patients are choosing to replace their amalgam fillings with modern, tooth-coloured composite alternatives. But why make the switch?

The Benefits of Composite Fillings

1. A Natural Look Unlike silver fillings, composite fillings are designed to match the colour of your natural teeth. This makes them virtually invisible when you talk, laugh, or smile — perfect for anyone looking for a more aesthetic, seamless appearance.

2. Mercury-Free Materials While amalgam fillings are widely used and considered safe, they do contain small amounts of mercury. Composite fillings are completely mercury-free, giving many patients extra peace of mind.

3. Minimally Invasive Composite materials bond directly to the tooth, meaning less healthy tooth structure needs to be removed compared to amalgam. This allows for a more conservative and tooth-friendly approach.

4. Strong and Durable Modern composites are highly durable and suitable for both front and back teeth. With proper care, they can last many years and stand up to everyday wear and tear.

5. Cosmetic Upgrade If your silver fillings have started to show through your enamel or cause cosmetic concerns, replacing them with white fillings can give your smile a refreshed, youthful look.

Should You Replace Yours?

Whether or not to replace amalgam fillings depends on a few factors — including the age and condition of your current fillings, your oral health, and your personal preferences. In some cases, we may recommend replacement if the filling is leaking, cracked, or no longer properly supporting the tooth.

At Hermitage Dental Practice, we’ll always provide honest advice based on your individual needs. If you’re curious about whether composite fillings are right for you, we’re happy to discuss your options in a relaxed, pressure-free consultation.