Comparing Amalgam and Composite Fillings: Which Is Right for You?

When it comes to dental fillings, the landscape has changed dramatically over recent years. While amalgam (silver) fillings have been the standard for generations of Australians, more Brisbane patients are now choosing composite (white) fillings for both new cavities and as replacements for existing amalgam restorations. This shift reflects growing awareness about the aesthetic, health and environmental advantages of modern filling materials.

If you've had dental work in the past, you might be wondering whether your old silver fillings should be replaced with newer alternatives. Let's explore the key differences between these materials to help you make an informed decision about your dental care.

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What Are Amalgam Fillings?

Amalgam fillings have been used in dentistry for over 150 years and consist of a mixture of metals including mercury (approximately 50%), silver, tin, and copper. These traditional fillings have served patients well due to their:

• Durability and strength, particularly in high-pressure areas like molars
• Resistance to wear over long periods
• Lower cost compared to some alternatives
• Quick placement procedure

However, amalgam fillings do come with several limitations. The dark silver-grey appearance is immediately noticeable when you speak or laugh. Over time, they can cause microcracks in the surrounding tooth structure as the metal expands and contracts with temperature changes. Perhaps most significantly, they contain mercury, which has raised health concerns for some patients despite regulatory approvals.

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What Are Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings are made from a tooth-coloured resin mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. This modern material is bonded directly to the tooth structure and offers numerous advantages:

• Natural appearance that blends seamlessly with your own teeth
• Mercury-free composition
• Less invasive preparation that preserves more natural tooth structure
• Direct bonding to teeth, which can strengthen the remaining tooth structure
• Versatility for use in both front and back teeth

Composite materials have improved significantly over the years and now offer excellent durability, though they may need replacement sooner than amalgam in certain high-stress areas of the mouth.

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Why Health-Conscious Patients Prefer Composite

Many health-focused Brisbane residents are choosing composite fillings due to concerns about mercury exposure from amalgam. While organisations like the Australian Dental Association and World Health Organization recognise amalgam as safe for most people, they also acknowledge the gradual global shift toward mercury-free alternatives.

Small amounts of mercury vapour can be released from amalgam fillings over time, particularly during placement or removal. For patients with specific health concerns or those simply preferring a more holistic approach to dental care, composite fillings offer peace of mind.

At Skye Dental, we understand these concerns and offer Safe Amalgam Removal following the SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) protocol. This specialised procedure minimises exposure to mercury vapour during the removal process through:

• Protective barriers and specialised equipment
• High-volume suction
• Air filtration systems
• Careful isolation techniques

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Aesthetic and Lifestyle Benefits

Beyond health considerations, the aesthetic advantages of composite fillings are compelling. They're virtually invisible, matching your natural tooth colour perfectly. This makes them ideal for:

• Front teeth and visible areas of your smile
• Patients who feel self-conscious about showing metal fillings when speaking or laughing
• Professional environments where appearance matters

Unlike amalgam fillings that can cause grey discolouration in the surrounding gum tissue over time, composites maintain their natural appearance throughout their lifespan. Many patients report feeling more confident in their smile after replacing dark amalgam fillings with tooth-coloured alternatives.

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Environmental Considerations

Environmental impact is another factor driving the transition to composite materials. Dental amalgam is one of the largest remaining uses of mercury in Australia, and improper disposal can contribute to environmental pollution.

When amalgam fillings are removed or when teeth with amalgam are extracted, the mercury can enter wastewater systems if not properly contained. In contrast, composite materials pose fewer environmental concerns during placement, replacement or disposal.

Skye Dental is committed to eco-conscious practices, including proper handling and disposal of dental materials to minimise environmental impact.

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Making the Right Choice for Your Dental Health

While amalgam has served dental patients well for generations, modern composite materials offer significant advantages in terms of aesthetics, health considerations and environmental impact. For many Brisbane patients, these benefits outweigh the slightly higher cost and potentially shorter lifespan of composite restorations.

That said, the decision to replace existing amalgam fillings should be made on an individual basis, considering factors such as:

• The condition of your current fillings
• Your overall oral health
• Personal preferences regarding aesthetics
• Any specific health concerns
• Budget considerations

At Skye Dental, we take a patient-centred approach to these decisions, providing you with comprehensive information and respecting your priorities and preferences.

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Conclusion

The shift from amalgam to composite fillings represents a positive evolution in dental care, offering Brisbane patients safer, more aesthetic and environmentally friendly options. While amalgam fillings have served previous generations well, composite materials align better with modern expectations for both health and appearance.

If you're considering replacing your silver fillings or exploring mercury-free options for new dental work, our team at Skye Dental is here to provide personalised advice and exceptional care using the latest techniques and materials.

Book a consultation today to discover how composite fillings can support both your oral health and aesthetic goals, giving you another reason to smile with confidence.

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