Composite Fillings vs. Silver Fillings: What’s Best for You in Fairhope, AL?
Cavities happen—even to patients who brush and floss daily. The good news is that modern dentistry offers safe, effective, and natural-looking solutions to restore your teeth. If you’ve been told you need a filling, you may be wondering: Should I choose a traditional silver (amalgam) filling or a tooth-colored composite filling?
At Sweet Water Dentistry in Fairhope, AL, we help patients make the best choice based on their needs, preferences, and budget. Both silver and composite fillings have been used for years, but each comes with pros and cons. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences, benefits, and which option may be right for you.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are materials used to restore a tooth damaged by decay. After removing the cavity, the dentist fills the space to protect the tooth, prevent further decay, and restore normal function. Fillings are one of the most common dental treatments—and also one of the most important for long-term oral health.
Silver Fillings (Amalgam): Pros and Cons
What They Are:
Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They’ve been used for more than 150 years in dentistry.
Benefits of Silver Fillings:
- Durability: They are strong and long-lasting, especially for molars that handle heavy chewing.
- Affordability: Silver fillings are often less expensive than composite options.
- Quick Placement: They are easier to place in certain cases, especially for larger cavities.
Drawbacks of Silver Fillings:
- Aesthetics: Silver fillings are dark and highly visible, especially on front teeth.
- Mercury Content: While the FDA considers them safe, some patients prefer mercury-free alternatives.
- Potential for Cracks: Metal expands and contracts with temperature changes, which may cause cracks in the tooth over time.
Composite Fillings: Pros and Cons
What They Are:
Composite fillings are made of a tooth-colored resin material that bonds directly to the tooth structure.
Benefits of Composite Fillings:
- Aesthetic Appeal: They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible.
- Bonding Strength: Composite material bonds to the tooth, strengthening the overall structure.
- Less Drilling: Because they bond directly, less tooth structure is removed compared to amalgam fillings.
- Mercury-Free: A safe, modern option for health-conscious patients.
Drawbacks of Composite Fillings:
- Cost: They can be more expensive than silver fillings.
- Durability: While durable, they may not last quite as long as amalgam in very large fillings.
- Placement Time: Composite fillings take longer to place since the tooth must be kept dry during bonding.
Which Option Is Best for You?
The choice between silver and composite fillings often depends on:
- Tooth Location – For back molars, durability may be a priority, while visible teeth benefit from composite’s natural look.
- Budget – Amalgam is generally more affordable, but many patients prefer to invest in composite for cosmetic reasons.
- Personal Preference – Some patients prefer mercury-free, natural-looking options.
- Size of the Cavity – Larger cavities may require a stronger material like silver or even an alternative such as a crown.
At Sweet Water Dentistry in Fairhope, Dr. Phillip Greer will review your unique needs and help you choose the right solution.
Why Fairhope Patients Prefer Composite Fillings
In Baldwin County, many patients are choosing composite fillings because they:
- Look natural, even when laughing or smiling
- Support overall dental health by bonding to enamel
- Allow for a conservative approach (less drilling)
- Fit today’s modern, cosmetic-focused lifestyles
Whether you’re a professional in Daphne who meets with clients daily or a student in Fairhope who wants a confident smile, composite fillings are often the preferred choice.
The Process of Getting a Filling at Sweet Water Dentistry
- Examination & X-Rays – We locate the cavity and assess the extent of decay.
- Anesthesia – A local anesthetic ensures you’re comfortable and pain-free.
- Decay Removal – The damaged portion of the tooth is removed.
- Filling Placement – Either silver or composite material is placed, shaped, and hardened.
- Polishing & Bite Check – The filling is polished and adjusted for a comfortable bite.
Our patients appreciate that the process is quick, gentle, and focused on comfort.
FAQs About Fillings
Q: Are silver fillings safe?
A: Yes, the FDA and ADA consider them safe, but many patients prefer composite for aesthetics and peace of mind.
Q: How long do composite fillings last?
A: With proper care, composite fillings typically last 7–10 years. Silver fillings may last 10–15 years or longer.
Q: Can I replace old silver fillings with composite?
A: Yes, many patients choose to replace older silver fillings with tooth-colored composite for a more natural look.
Why Preventive Care Matters in Baldwin County
Fillings are important, but prevention is better. Regular cleanings and exams in Fairhope help detect cavities early—sometimes before you even feel symptoms. Catching cavities early means smaller fillings and less damage to your teeth.
Patient Stories from Fairhope
One Fairhope patient came in worried about the dark silver fillings she had since childhood. After replacing them with composite fillings, she was thrilled to finally feel confident smiling again. Another Baldwin County patient with a busy career in Spanish Fort appreciated that composite fillings gave him a professional, polished look without noticeable dental work.
Both silver and composite fillings are effective for restoring teeth—but today, more patients in Fairhope, AL are choosing composite for their natural look, safety, and bonding strength. Whether you need your first filling or want to replace older ones, Sweet Water Dentistry is here to guide you through the best choice for your smile.
Visit us for expert care:
Sweet Water Dentistry
📍 5915 Sweetwater Cir, Fairhope, AL 36532
🌐 sweetwatersmile.com
📞 Call or Text: (251) 210-2773
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📞 Call us today at 251-210-2773 to schedule your dental exam and find out which filling option is right for you. Protect your teeth, restore your smile, and enjoy long-lasting results with a team you can trust “Down by the Bay.”