Silver Fillings Are Not Your Only Option for Treating a Cavity
Silver fillings are one of the most recognised dental treatments, but they are not the only way to fill a cavity. Today, patients in Calgary NW have access to several filling materials — including tooth-coloured composite and ceramic options — that restore damaged teeth while blending naturally with your smile. Your dentist will help you choose the most suitable material based on the size of the cavity, its location, your budget, and your aesthetic preferences.
What Is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a restorative treatment used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or chipping. During the procedure, your dentist removes the decayed or damaged tooth material, thoroughly cleans the affected area, and fills the space with a chosen filling material. This process restores the tooth’s normal shape and function while sealing off spaces where bacteria could otherwise enter and cause further decay.
Fillings are one of the most common procedures performed in family dental care in Calgary NW, and catching decay early — through routine teeth cleaning and dental check-ups — can keep fillings small and treatment straightforward.
Types of Dental Fillings: What Are Your Options?
Here is a clear breakdown of the most common dental filling materials available to patients in Calgary:
1. Silver Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam is the most widely used dental filling material worldwide. It is composed of a mixture of metals including silver, tin, zinc, copper, and mercury. Amalgam fillings are known for their:
- Strength and durability — well suited for back teeth that endure heavy chewing pressure
- Low cost — often the most affordable filling option
- Longevity — can last 10–15 years or more with proper care
The primary drawback is appearance. Amalgam fillings are silver-grey in colour and are noticeable in visible areas of the mouth. Some patients also have concerns about the mercury content, though health regulatory bodies in Canada consider amalgam safe for most adults.
2. Composite (Tooth-Coloured) Fillings
Composite fillings are made from a tooth-coloured resin and plastic material that can be closely matched to the shade of your natural teeth. They are an increasingly popular choice for patients who want a more discreet result. Key advantages include:
- Natural appearance — blends seamlessly with surrounding teeth
- Bonding strength — bonds directly to the tooth, which can help preserve more natural tooth structure
- Versatility — suitable for both front and back teeth
Composite fillings are placed in layers and hardened (cured) using a UV light. They may wear down faster than amalgam under heavy biting pressure and may require replacement sooner. Learn more about composite white fillings at Expressions Dental.
3. Ceramic (Porcelain) Fillings
Ceramic fillings — sometimes called porcelain inlays or onlays — are custom-fabricated restorations made from high-quality dental porcelain. They offer:
- Excellent aesthetics — highly tooth-coloured and natural-looking
- Stain resistance — more resistant to staining than composite resin
- Durability — wear-resistant and long-lasting when properly placed
Ceramic is more expensive than both amalgam and composite, and because it is more brittle, it requires sufficient tooth structure to support it. For larger restorations, your dentist may recommend a dental inlay or onlay, which is a more precise, custom-fitted ceramic restoration made in a dental laboratory.
4. Gold Fillings
Gold fillings (also called gold inlays or onlays) are among the most durable restoration options available, with a lifespan of 20 years or more in some cases. They are highly biocompatible and tolerated well by gum tissue. However, gold fillings are the most expensive option, require at least two dental visits to place, and are the most visually obvious due to their gold colour.
5. Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer is a tooth-coloured material commonly used for fillings in children or for cavities near the gum line. It releases small amounts of fluoride, which can help protect the surrounding tooth structure. Glass ionomer is less durable than composite or amalgam and is generally not recommended for high-pressure chewing surfaces in permanent adult teeth.
How Do You Know Which Filling Is Right for You?
Choosing the right filling material depends on several factors:
- Location of the cavity — front teeth benefit most from tooth-coloured materials; back teeth may benefit from the added strength of amalgam or ceramic
- Size of the decay — larger cavities may require inlays, onlays, or even dental crowns rather than a standard filling
- Aesthetic goals — if a natural-looking smile is a priority, composite or ceramic is usually preferred
- Budget — amalgam is the most cost-effective; gold and ceramic are premium options
- Allergies or sensitivities — your dentist will review your medical history to rule out any material sensitivities
Why Regular Dental Visits Help You Avoid Larger Restorations
Cavities that are detected early are nearly always smaller, easier, and less costly to treat. Routine dental check-ups, professional cleanings, and digital X-rays allow your dental team to identify decay before it progresses to the point where a filling, root canal, or extraction becomes necessary. The best filling is one you never need.
Book Your Filling Consultation at Expressions Dental in Calgary NW
If you have been told you need a filling — or suspect you may have a cavity — the licensed dental team at Expressions Dental in Calgary NW is here to help. We offer a full range of filling options, including tooth-coloured composite and ceramic restorations, and will take the time to explain your choices clearly so you can make an informed decision.
Contact Expressions Dental today to book an appointment or ask about our insurance and direct billing options. We also welcome new patients and families throughout Calgary NW.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are silver fillings still used in Canada?
Yes, silver amalgam fillings are still used in Canada and are considered safe for most adults by Health Canada. However, they are less commonly recommended for visible teeth due to their silver-grey appearance. Many patients now choose tooth-coloured composite or ceramic alternatives for a more natural result.
How long do dental fillings last?
The lifespan of a filling depends on the material used and where it is placed. Amalgam fillings typically last 10–15 years, composite fillings 7–10 years, and ceramic or gold restorations can last 15–20 years or longer with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
Do tooth-coloured fillings cost more than silver fillings?
Composite (tooth-coloured) fillings generally cost slightly more than amalgam fillings, and ceramic fillings cost more again. The exact fee depends on the size of the cavity and the tooth being treated. You can ask your dental team at Expressions Dental about our fees and whether your insurance plan covers composite fillings.
Is getting a filling painful?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during a filling procedure. Your dentist will apply local anaesthetic to numb the area before beginning. If dental anxiety is a concern, Expressions Dental offers sedation options to help you feel comfortable throughout your visit.
Can a large cavity be treated with a regular filling?
Not always. If a cavity is very large or has significantly weakened the tooth structure, a standard filling may not provide sufficient support. In these cases, your dentist may recommend a dental inlay, onlay, or dental crown to properly restore the tooth's strength and function.
How do I know if I have a cavity that needs a filling?
Common signs of a cavity include tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, a visible hole or dark spot on a tooth, or a toothache. However, many cavities have no obvious symptoms in their early stages, which is why routine check-ups and digital X-rays are so important for catching decay early.
Can children get tooth-coloured fillings?
Yes, composite and glass ionomer fillings are both used in paediatric dentistry. Tooth-coloured fillings are often preferred for children's visible teeth. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate material based on your child's age, the tooth involved, and the extent of the decay.