What types of tooth fillings does Valley Dentalcare offer?

Our dentists can offer the cavity filling that best suits their patient’s preference, including:

  • Amalgam, silver fillings
  • Composite resins, or tooth-coloured fillings

Why are most tooth fillings silver?

A silver tooth filling is made from Dental amalgam. This has been the standard of care in dentistry for over a century because its durability, long lifespan, and its affordability compared to other cavity filling materials (tooth-coloured composites).The durability of silver amalgam fillings make them the best choice for large cavities or cavities that occur in the back teeth. These molar teeth are used significantly during chewing, and a lot of force is needed. Amalgam fillings can withstand these forces and provide a patient a long-term, reliable filling for a cavity. Another benefit is that amalgam hardens quickly. So, whether the dentist is working in an area that’s difficult to keep dry (like below the gum line) or working with a child or special needs patient, the short set-up time of the amalgam filling makes it a superior choice when time is of the essence.

Is the mercury in silver tooth fillings safe?

Dental amalgam includes mercury content, but when combined with the other metals offers a safe, stable material for filling cavities. Amalgam has been proven to be safe and effective material by many studies and by many organizations. According to the American Dental Association…

The American Dental Association, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U. S. Food and Drug Administration and World Health Organization all agree that based on extensive scientific evidence, dental amalgam is a safe and effective cavity-filling material. The Alzheimer’s Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, Autism Society of America and National Multiple Sclerosis Society—all science-based organizations like the ADA—also say that amalgam poses no health risk.

Are tooth-coloured fillings available?

Tooth-coloured fillings are growing in popularity in recent years because they are more cosmetically-pleasing compared to silver fillings. Made from composite resins, natural-coloured fillings are best for small-to-medium-sized fillings that don’t need to withstand as much chewing pressure as molar teeth.