White Fillings vs Silver Fillings: Which Is Right for You?
Composite or amalgam? Understanding the differences between white and silver fillings helps you make an informed choice about restoring your teeth — from appearance and strength to cost and longevity.
If you need a filling, you may be wondering whether to choose a tooth-coloured white filling in London or a traditional silver amalgam filling. Both are effective at restoring teeth damaged by decay — but they differ in appearance, material, strength, and cost.
This guide explains the key differences between white (composite) fillings and silver (amalgam) fillings — so you can understand what each involves and feel more confident discussing your options with your dentist. The most appropriate material will always depend on a thorough clinical assessment, including the size and location of the cavity.
The information on this page is for general guidance only. Treatment suitability, outcomes, and costs vary between individuals. A clinical examination is necessary before any treatment can be recommended.
White Fillings vs Silver Fillings: Side-by-Side
A quick overview of the key differences between composite and amalgam fillings.
| Feature | White Filling (Composite) | Silver Filling (Amalgam) |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type | Tooth-coloured composite resin | Silver-coloured amalgam alloy (silver, tin, copper, mercury) |
| Procedure Type | Direct — bonded to the tooth chairside | Direct — packed into the cavity chairside |
| Treatment Time | Single appointment — typically 30–60 minutes | Single appointment — typically 30–60 minutes |
| Strength | Good for small to moderate cavities | Very strong — particularly suited to large back-tooth restorations |
| Aesthetics | Tooth-coloured — virtually invisible | Silver/metallic — visible in the mouth |
| Cost (UK Range) | From £185 | Generally lower cost — less widely offered privately |
| Longevity | Typically 5–10 years depending on size and location | Typically 10–15+ years |
| Suitability | Front and back teeth — excellent aesthetics | Back teeth where strength is the priority |
This table provides a general overview. The most suitable material depends on your individual clinical assessment.
What Are White Fillings?
White fillings (also called composite fillings) are made from a tooth-coloured composite resin that is carefully matched to the shade of your natural teeth. The material is placed directly into the prepared cavity, shaped to match the tooth's contours, and hardened with a curing light — all in a single appointment.
Modern composite fillings are mercury-free, bond directly to the tooth structure, and are virtually invisible once placed. They are the most popular choice at our practice and are suitable for treating tooth decay with fillings in both front and back teeth, making them an excellent option for patients who value natural aesthetics.
Potential Benefits
- Tooth-coloured — blends seamlessly with natural teeth
- Mercury-free — no metallic materials
- Bonds directly to tooth structure for a secure repair
- Preserves more natural tooth — less drilling required
- Suitable for front and back teeth
Suitable Candidates May Include
- Patients with small to moderate cavities in any tooth
- Those who want a natural-looking, invisible repair
- Patients who prefer a mercury-free filling material
- Those replacing old silver amalgam fillings for aesthetic reasons
Your dentist will confirm whether a composite filling is the most appropriate option for your cavity.
What Are Silver Fillings?
Silver fillings (dental amalgam) are made from a mixture of metals — typically silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Amalgam has been used in dentistry for over 150 years and remains one of the strongest and most durable filling materials available, particularly for large restorations in back teeth that bear heavy biting forces.
While amalgam fillings are highly effective, their silver-metallic appearance makes them visible in the mouth, and the material does not bond to the tooth — meaning more tooth structure may need to be removed to create a secure fit. Many private practices, including ours, now primarily offer tooth-coloured composite fillings, though a dental examination for treatment planning will help determine the best material for your specific case.
Potential Benefits
- Very strong — well-suited to large cavities in back teeth
- Highly durable — can last 10–15 years or more
- Long clinical track record — used safely for over 150 years
- Generally lower cost than composite fillings
- Effective in areas where moisture control is difficult
Suitable Candidates May Include
- Patients with large cavities in back teeth (molars)
- Those where strength and durability are the primary concern
- Patients seeking the most cost-effective filling option
- Cases where moisture control makes composite placement difficult
Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate material based on the cavity size, location, and your preferences.
How Do They Compare?
Understanding these differences helps clarify which filling material may be most appropriate for your situation.
Material Composition
White fillings are made from composite resin — a tooth-coloured, mercury-free material. Silver fillings are made from dental amalgam — an alloy of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. The mercury in amalgam is chemically bound within the alloy and is considered safe by dental and health authorities, but many patients now prefer the mercury-free composite alternative.
Appearance
This is the most obvious difference. White composite fillings are carefully colour-matched to your teeth, making them virtually invisible. Silver amalgam fillings are metallic and clearly visible, particularly in the lower jaw and when laughing or yawning. For front teeth and visible areas, composite fillings are the clear aesthetic choice.
Strength and Durability
Amalgam fillings are generally stronger under compression and are well-suited to large restorations in back teeth that bear heavy biting forces. Composite fillings are strong enough for small to moderate cavities but may wear more quickly in very large restorations. For larger cavities, your dentist may recommend an inlay, onlay, or crown for added strength.
Longevity
Amalgam fillings typically last 10 to 15 years or more. Composite fillings have improved significantly and now typically last 5 to 10 years — with some lasting longer depending on the cavity size, location, and the patient's oral care. Advances in composite technology continue to narrow this gap.
Cost
Amalgam fillings are generally less expensive due to the material and simpler placement technique. Composite fillings cost more because the material is more expensive and placement requires more precision and time. However, many private practices now primarily offer composite fillings as standard, reflecting patient preference for aesthetics and mercury-free materials.
Pros and Cons
Both materials have served dentistry well. Here is a balanced overview of each option.
White Fillings (Composite)
Tooth-coloured, mercury-free restoration
Pros
- Tooth-coloured — virtually invisible once placed
- Mercury-free — no metallic materials
- Bonds directly to tooth — preserves more natural structure
- Suitable for front and back teeth
- Can be used to replace old amalgam fillings for aesthetic improvement
Cons
- May not be as durable as amalgam for very large back-tooth cavities
- Shorter expected lifespan than amalgam in some cases
- May stain or discolour over time
- Higher cost than amalgam fillings
Silver Fillings (Amalgam)
Metal alloy restoration with long clinical history
Pros
- Very strong — ideal for large cavities in back teeth
- Highly durable — can last 10–15 years or more
- Long, well-established clinical track record
- Generally lower cost than composite fillings
- Effective in areas where moisture control is challenging
Cons
- Silver-metallic colour — clearly visible in the mouth
- Contains mercury — some patients prefer mercury-free options
- Does not bond to tooth — requires more tooth removal for retention
- Restricted for children under 15 and pregnant/breastfeeding women (EU regulations)
Cost Comparison
Costs vary depending on the size and location of the filling and individual clinical factors.
White Filling (Composite)
From £185
Per filling
White composite fillings cost more than amalgam, reflecting the premium material, the precise colour-matching process, and the technique-sensitive placement. However, many patients consider the natural appearance and mercury-free composition well worth the additional cost. As part of broader cosmetic dental treatments, composite fillings also support overall smile improvement options.
Final cost confirmed at your appointment. Larger or more complex fillings may cost more.
Silver Filling (Amalgam)
Lower Cost
Material and placement are less expensive
Amalgam fillings are generally less expensive than composite fillings due to the simpler placement technique and lower material cost. However, many private dental practices — including ours — now primarily offer composite fillings, as most patients prefer the natural appearance and mercury-free composition. Your dentist will discuss all options and costs with you during your consultation.
Amalgam availability varies between practices. Ask your dentist about the options available to you.
Final costs are confirmed after your consultation and clinical assessment. A full written estimate is always provided before treatment begins.
See full treatment feesWhich Option May Be Best for You?
Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate material based on a thorough clinical examination. These general scenarios may help guide your understanding.
Best for Natural Appearance
If you want a filling that is virtually invisible, a white composite filling is the clear choice. The material is carefully matched to the shade of your natural teeth, making it ideal for front teeth, visible areas, and anyone who values a natural-looking smile.
Best for Strength in Back Teeth
For very large cavities in back teeth (molars) that bear heavy biting forces, amalgam fillings have traditionally offered superior strength and longevity. However, modern composites perform well for most back-tooth cavities. For very large restorations, your dentist may also consider an inlay, onlay, or crown.
Best for Affordability
Amalgam fillings are generally the more affordable option. However, many private practices now primarily offer composite fillings as standard, and the cost difference is often modest for routine cavities. Your dentist will discuss all costs transparently during your consultation.
Best for Modern Cosmetic Dentistry
White composite fillings are the standard in modern cosmetic and private dentistry. They offer natural aesthetics, mercury-free composition, and conservative tooth preparation. For patients replacing old amalgam fillings or seeking a more natural smile, composite is the preferred material.
The Right Material Starts with an Assessment
The choice between white and silver fillings depends on the size and location of the cavity, the biting forces involved, and your personal preferences. During your dental examination, your dentist will assess your tooth, explain the available options, and recommend whichever material — or combination of tooth restoration options — is most clinically appropriate. For very large cavities, a dental crown in London may be recommended for greater protection.
Your dentist will recommend the most suitable filling material following a thorough clinical assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Restore Your Tooth with the Right Filling?
Book a consultation with one of our experienced dentists. Following a thorough clinical examination, your dentist will recommend the most appropriate filling material for your tooth — and provide a full written estimate before any treatment begins.
This article is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute personalised dental advice. Individual diagnosis and treatment recommendations require a clinical examination by a qualified dental professional. Treatment outcomes, timelines, and costs vary between individuals. All treatments are provided by GDC-registered dental professionals at our CQC-registered practice.
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