Are your amalgam fillings past their prime?

For decades, silver coloured amalgam was the go-to fix for tooth decay. It did a great job at keeping teeth strong and functional, but it came with a few downsides, especially in the looks department.

This next point may surprise you to learn, but as the years go by, amalgam can darken and become even more noticeable. It is a gradual change, so you’re in the minority if you actually spotted that progression. Whether or not you picked up on the visual change, one thing’s for sure. It can heighten your sense of self-consciousness when you laugh or smile. That’s not a fun feeling. The great thing is, modern alternatives are beautifully subtle, yet just as strong.

Let’s explore modern fillings that blend in so naturally, no one will even notice they’re there.

150 years of amalgam strength

Amalgam fillings have been saving teeth longer than any of us have been around. They’re made of a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and a small amount of mercury that holds everything together. Once placed, the material hardens into a strong and durable filling that can last for many years, which is why dentists relied on it for over a century.

Today, this type of filling is most commonly used in the back teeth, where the pressure from chewing is greatest and aesthetics matter less. For a long time, amalgam was the go-to option when durability mattered most.

Benefits of amalgam

• Long-lasting – Amalgam can last 10–15 years, sometimes even longer, especially in back teeth.
• Strong and durable – It withstands heavy biting and chewing, making it ideal for molars.
• Cost-effective – Generally less expensive than tooth-coloured alternatives.

Drawbacks of amalgam

• Appearance – The silver colour stands out and doesn’t blend with natural teeth.
• Darkening over time – Amalgam can tarnish and appear even darker as it ages.
• More tooth removal – Healthy tooth structure often needs to be drilled away so the filling can be securely held in place.
• Expansion and contraction – The metal reacts to hot and cold foods, which may cause cracks in the tooth or small gaps at the filling’s edges.
• Potential for hidden decay – Gaps or cracks can let bacteria in, causing decay underneath without obvious warning signs.
• Possible tooth discolouration – Over time, the tooth around an amalgam filling can take on a greyish tint.
• Mercury concerns – While research shows amalgam is generally safe, some patients prefer to avoid it because it contains mercury.

Are they still relevant today?

Amalgam fillings are still used in some dental practices, but far less often than they once were. They remain a reliable option when durability is the main concern—for example, in large back teeth that carry heavy chewing loads. In situations where cost is a big factor, amalgam may also still be considered.

That said, most people today prefer tooth-coloured restorations. Not only do modern materials like composite resin and ceramic provide excellent strength, they also blend in naturally with your teeth. With the added benefit of bonding directly to the tooth (meaning less healthy tooth is drilled away), these alternatives often make more sense for long-term oral health and appearance.

So while amalgam hasn’t completely disappeared, it’s no longer the first choice for many dentists or patients. Instead, it tends to be reserved for specific cases—while most people now opt for natural-looking, tooth-coloured fillings that are both functional and discreet.

When should you replace amalgam fillings?

You don’t need to rush into replacing every silver filling. If it’s still intact, comfortable, and protecting your tooth properly, there’s usually no reason to remove it. But like all dental work, fillings don’t last forever, and it’s important to have them checked regularly.

Here are some reasons a replacement might be needed:

• Hidden decay – Cavities can quietly develop underneath older fillings without obvious symptoms.
• Damage or wear – Chipped, cracked, or worn fillings can put your tooth at risk.
• Weakened tooth structure – Large amalgams can sometimes cause the surrounding tooth to fracture over time.
• Appearance – Old silver fillings can tarnish and darken, making them more noticeable when you talk or smile.

Your dentist will let you know if your fillings are still doing their job or if it’s time to consider an update.

Tooth-coloured alternatives

These days, fillings don’t have to be obvious. With modern tooth-coloured materials, your restorations can be strong, durable, and virtually invisible—blending in beautifully with your natural teeth.

Two of the most common options are:

Care for your fillings (and your smile)

No matter if your fillings are silver or tooth-coloured, they still need proper care to last. Stick with the essentials: brush twice daily, floss every day, and visit your dentist regularly. Routine check-ups give your dentist the chance to catch early signs of wear, cracks, or hidden decay. That gives you every chance of avoiding bigger problems down the track.

Time to refresh your smile

Amalgam fillings have stood the test of time, but as they age, they can become more noticeable and less appealing. With today’s tooth-coloured materials, you don’t have to choose between strength and appearance. Get lasting strength and good looks with fillings that blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth.

If you’re thinking that maybe it’s time to replace your silver fillings, a quick check with your dentist can give you peace of mind. They’ll let you know if everything is still holding up or if a modern upgrade could be the better option.

After all, you deserve to smile with health and confidence.