Every few months, a patient asks us some version of the same question:
“Do you still do silver fillings?”
The short answer?
No. We haven’t placed traditional silver amalgam fillings in more than a decade.
And honestly, that’s not unusual anymore.
Many modern dental practices have moved toward tooth-colored composite restorations as their standard filling material.
But patients often want to know why.
Is it because silver fillings are unsafe?
Is it because white fillings look better?
Is it just marketing?
Here’s what actually matters.
Need a Filling? Go Mercury-Free
Protect your tooth with a modern filling that looks natural and contains no silver amalgam. Call now for an appointment.
The Short Answer
At Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we’ve chosen to use tooth-colored composite fillings instead of traditional silver amalgam fillings because they allow us to:
- Preserve more healthy tooth structure
- Match the natural color of teeth
- Avoid visible metal restorations
- Bond directly to the tooth
- Create a more natural-looking result
For most patients today, composite fillings are the preferred option.
First: What Is a Silver Filling?
Traditional “silver fillings” are called dental amalgam.
They’re made from a combination of metals, including:
- Silver
- Tin
- Copper
- Mercury
Amalgam has been used in dentistry for more than 150 years.
The reason is simple:
It works.
Many amalgam fillings placed decades ago are still functioning today.
That’s an important point because some online discussions make it sound like every silver filling is automatically a problem.
That’s not true.
Are Silver Fillings Dangerous?
This is where the conversation gets emotional.
Many patients hear the word “mercury” and immediately become concerned.
The American Dental Association, FDA, and many major health organizations have stated that dental amalgam remains an acceptable restorative material for many patients.
At the same time, the FDA has identified certain groups that may wish to discuss alternatives with their healthcare providers, including pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and individuals with certain neurological or kidney conditions.
The important thing to understand is this:
The decision to use composite fillings is often driven by aesthetics and tooth preservation not fear.
Why We Switched to Tooth-Colored Fillings
The biggest reason has nothing to do with mercury.
It’s about the tooth itself.
Composite Fillings Usually Require Less Tooth Removal
Traditional amalgam fillings rely heavily on mechanical retention.
In plain English:
The tooth often has to be shaped in a way that helps hold the filling in place.
Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth.
That frequently allows dentists to preserve more healthy tooth structure.
And preserving healthy tooth structure is usually a good thing.
The Cosmetic Difference Is Obvious
Let’s be honest.
Most people don’t want metal showing when they smile.
Especially when the filling is visible.
Composite fillings are designed to blend with your natural tooth color.
Most people can’t tell they’re there.
For patients concerned about appearance, this is often the deciding factor.
Why Many Older Fillings Eventually Need Replacement
Interestingly, patients don’t usually replace silver fillings because of mercury concerns.
They replace them because the fillings are old.
Over time, we often see:
- Wear
- Cracks
- Leakage
- Decay around the filling
- Fractures in the surrounding tooth structure
A 25-year-old filling regardless of material deserves evaluation.
Sometimes it’s fine.
Sometimes it’s not.
A Family Affair: Pediatric and Elderly Services at Local Dentist Offices
At Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand that dental [...]
Learn More
The Honest Truth About Replacing Old Silver Fillings
This is where some dental marketing gets carried away.
Not every silver filling needs to be removed.
If an amalgam filling is:
- Functional
- Stable
- Free of decay
- Not causing problems
There may be no reason to replace it immediately.
Good dentistry isn’t about replacing things that are working.
It’s about addressing problems when they exist.
When We Do Recommend Replacement
We commonly recommend replacing older fillings when:
- Decay develops around them
- The filling cracks
- The tooth cracks
- The restoration leaks
- The filling no longer functions properly
- A larger restorative treatment is needed
The recommendation is based on the condition of the tooth, not simply the age of the filling.
The Question Patients Should Really Ask
Instead of asking:
“Do I have silver fillings?”
Ask:
“Are my fillings healthy and functioning properly?”
That’s the more important question.
A healthy filling is a healthy filling.
The material is only part of the conversation.
The Bottom Line
Silver fillings helped millions of people keep their teeth for generations.
But dentistry has evolved.
Today, most patients prefer tooth-colored restorations that preserve more natural tooth structure and blend seamlessly into their smile.
That’s why Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry has been mercury-free for more than a decade.
At our Burlington office, Dr. Thomas Monahan focuses on modern restorative materials that prioritize function, durability, and aesthetics while helping patients throughout Burlington, Graham, Mebane, Elon, and Alamance County make informed decisions about their dental care. The goal isn’t replacing fillings simply because they’re old. It’s helping patients understand what their teeth need and what they don’t.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you still place silver fillings?
No. We use tooth-colored composite restorations instead.
Should I replace all my old silver fillings?
Not necessarily. Replacement decisions should be based on the condition of the filling and surrounding tooth structure.
Are tooth-colored fillings stronger than silver fillings?
Each material has advantages and limitations. The best choice depends on the tooth, location, and clinical situation.
Are silver fillings safe?
Major dental and health organizations continue to recognize dental amalgam as an acceptable restorative material for many patients.
Can old silver fillings be replaced with white fillings?
In many cases, yes. A dental examination can determine whether replacement is appropriate.
Ready for a Mercury-Free Smile?
Choose modern, tooth-colored fillings designed to protect your smile without silver amalgam. Call today to schedule your visit.
