What Are Amalgam Fillings and When Are They Recommended?

Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, are a time-tested way to restore teeth that have been affected by cavities or damage. These restorations have been used in dentistry for more than 150 years because of their reliable strength and long-term durability. At My Smile Family Dental, we offer amalgam fillings as one option for our patients in Edmonton, alongside newer materials like tooth-coloured composite resin.

What Are Amalgam Fillings?

Amalgam fillings are made from a blend of metals, resulting in a silver-coloured restoration used to fill holes left behind after removing tooth decay. Amalgam is known for being durable, affordable, and particularly well-suited for restoring back teeth where the chewing forces are highest. Our practice offers these time-tested fillings along with composite options, allowing you to choose the restoration that fits your needs and preferences.

What Makes Amalgam Fillings Different?

Amalgam is stronger and longer-lasting than other filling materials, such as composite resin. If you need a filling in a back molar, where strength matters more than appearance, amalgam is often the right call. In contrast, composite fillings are tooth-coloured and bond directly to the tooth, making them a popular choice for visible teeth.

Are Amalgam Fillings Safe?

Safety is a common question about amalgam fillings. Health Canada, the FDA, and the World Health Organization have all confirmed that dental amalgam is safe for adults and children over six years of age. If you have concerns about amalgam, we're always happy to talk through your alternatives and help you make an informed decision.

When Are Amalgam Fillings Recommended?

We tend to recommend amalgam fillings for restoring back teeth, like molars, because these teeth experience the most force from chewing. The extra strength and durability of amalgam make it a practical choice in these cases. If the filling would be visible in your smile, or if you have specific preferences, we can discuss composite resin and other options.

What Are the Alternatives?

Composite resin fillings match the colour of your teeth, bond directly to the tooth structure, and usually require less drilling than amalgam. They're our first recommendation for visible teeth where appearance is most important. We also offer restorative options like inlay restorations, crowns, and bridges, depending on the extent of damage and your specific needs.

Our Approach to Restorative Care

Our clinic focuses on comfortable, clear, and patient-friendly care for families, new patients, and anyone with urgent dental concerns. We offer a wide range of restorative dental services, including amalgam fillings, to help you maintain and restore your oral health.

Where We’re Located and How to Book

My Smile Family Dental is located in Edmonton, AB, and serves Edmonton, South Edmonton, Mill Woods, and Ellerslie. If you want to book an appointment to discuss amalgam fillings or any other treatment options, call us at 780.455.6806.

What to Ask During Your Visit

If you’re considering a filling, we invite you to ask us about the pros and cons of different filling materials, how each might fit your dental needs, and what to expect from your treatment. We’re here to provide help and clarity so you can make confident choices about your oral health.