Silver vs. resin fillings: Which is best for your smile?

Silver vs Resin Fillings

If you’ve ever had a cavity, you’ve probably had to choose between silver and resin fillings. It’s one of the most common dental decisions our patients face, and it’s a good one to ask about. Both filling types do their job of sealing and protecting your tooth, but they’re pretty different in terms of appearance, durability, and cost. At Maple Dental, we want you to feel confident when making decisions about your dental care. So let’s break down the pros and cons of each option and help you decide what’s best for your smile.

What are silver fillings?

Silver fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, have been around for over a century. They’re made from a combination of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. Despite being an older technology, they’re still commonly used because they’re incredibly strong and long-lasting.

Benefits of silver fillings:

  • Durability: These fillings can last 10 to 15 years (and sometimes even longer).
  • Strength: They hold up really well under pressure, which makes them ideal for back molars where you do most of your chewing.
  • Affordability: Generally, silver fillings cost less than resin fillings, making them a budget-friendly choice.

Things to consider:

  • Appearance: The biggest downside is aesthetics. Silver fillings are noticeable, especially when you laugh or open your mouth wide.
  • Potential sensitivity: Some patients experience more sensitivity to hot and cold with metal fillings.
  • Metal content: While the FDA considers silver fillings safe, some people prefer to avoid mercury-containing materials altogether.

What are resin fillings?

Resin fillings, or composite fillings, are made from a mixture of plastic and glass materials. They’re tooth-colored and blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth. Over the years, the materials used in resin fillings have improved dramatically, making them a strong and reliable option.

Benefits of resin fillings:

  • Aesthetic appeal: They match the color of your natural teeth, making them nearly invisible.
  • Bonding ability: Resin fillings bond directly to the tooth, which can strengthen the remaining tooth structure.
  • Versatility: They can be used on both front and back teeth, and they’re great for small to mid-sized cavities.

Things to consider:

  • Durability: While pretty strong, resin fillings typically don’t last as long as silver—usually around 7 to 10 years.
  • Cost: Resin fillings are often more expensive than silver fillings, especially if insurance doesn’t cover the full amount.
  • Placement time: They take a little longer to place, since the tooth must be kept completely dry during the procedure.

Which filling is right for you?

When it comes to deciding between silver and resin, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on several factors like the location of the cavity, your budget, and your cosmetic preferences.

If you’re looking to restore a back tooth and want something affordable and long-lasting, silver fillings might be your best bet. But if you’re filling a tooth that shows when you smile, resin is probably the way to go.

At Maple Dental, we walk through these options with each of our patients to help them make informed choices. Whether you’re coming in for your first filling or replacing an old one, we’ll help you weigh the benefits of both options.

What do we recommend as a dentist in the High Desert of Hesperia?

As a dentist in the High Desert of Hesperia, we’ve seen thousands of patients with both types of fillings. In fact, many of our patients who previously had silver fillings are now opting to switch to resin when replacements are needed—especially for visible teeth.

That said, silver still has its place, especially for deep cavities or patients who need a long-term solution that won’t strain the budget. We often recommend resin for patients looking for a more natural look, and silver for those who want maximum strength with less concern about appearance.

Every mouth is different, and that’s why we encourage a personal consultation. If you’re unsure which type of filling is right for you, give us a call at 760-949-7274 or book an appointment. We’ll take the time to review your options and create a plan that fits your smile and lifestyle.

Our team is here to help you feel confident and comfortable, whether you need a simple filling or more extensive dental care. Let’s talk about your tooth filling options and find what works best for your smile.