The 4 Types of Tooth Fillings: How to Know Which to Get

There are several options when it comes to filling a cavity, but most fall under four main types: Amalgam, Composite Resin, Gold Fillings, and Ceramic Fillings. Each material comes with its own strengths, costs, and cosmetic considerations. Understanding these differences can help you make a more confident decision at the dentist’s office.

The Different Types of Fillings for Teeth

If your dentist has told you that you need a filling, you might be wondering: “What kind of filling should I get?” There are several types of dental fillings, and each one comes with its own set of benefits and trade-offs.

Some are more durable, some look more natural, and others are more budget-friendly. The right choice depends on your specific situation—and your preferences. Let’s take a closer look at the four main types of fillings for teeth:

Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)

Amalgam is a metal-based filling made from a mix of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. It’s been used in dentistry for over a century and is known for being strong and affordable. Amalgam is still widely used for types of cavity fillings in the back teeth, where strength matters more.

What is Amalgam Made Of?

These are made from a mix of metals: primarily silver, tin, copper, and about 50% mercury. That might sound alarming, but mercury is used to bind the metals together and create a strong, stable compound. According to most dental organizations, amalgam is considered safe.

Pros of Getting Amalgam

• Very durable: Can last 10–15 years or more, especially in molars where there’s a lot of chewing pressure.
• Less expensive: Generally more affordable than tooth-colored options like composite or ceramic.
• Quick placement – Easy to apply and doesn’t require a completely dry area, which can make the procedure faster.

Cons of Getting Amalgam

• Highly visible: The silver color stands out, making it less appealing for front or visible teeth.
• May expand or contract over time: This could lead to small cracks in the tooth structure.
• Contains mercury: While it’s considered safe by most dental associations, some patients are uncomfortable with mercury in their mouth.

Composite Resin Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings)

Composite fillings are made from a blend of plastic and glass particles. They’re popular because they can be tinted to match your natural tooth color. Composite is a common choice for patients who want a natural look—especially for fillings in teeth that are visible when talking or laughing.

What are Composite Resin Fillings Made Of?

These are made from a combination of acrylic resin and finely ground glass particles. The result? A strong, tooth-colored material that blends in seamlessly with your smile.

Pros of Getting Composite Fillings:

• Aesthetic appeal: Virtually invisible when done well. Perfect for front teeth or any area that shows when you smile.
• Minimally invasive: Less drilling is usually required, so more of your natural tooth is preserved.
• Bonding strength: Composite bonds directly to the tooth, which can help support and reinforce it.

Cons of Getting Composite Fillings:

• Not as durable as metal: May wear out faster, especially in large fillings or heavy-bite areas. Expect around 5–10 years of lifespan.
• More technique-sensitive: The tooth has to stay dry during placement, which can take more time and skill.
• Can stain over time: Especially if you drink coffee, tea, or wine regularly.

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are made from a gold alloy and are custom-made in a lab before being placed in your tooth. While rare today due to cost and cosmetic preferences, gold is still considered one of the best types of tooth fillings for strength and longevity.

What are Gold Filling Made Of?

Gold fillings aren’t pure gold—they’re actually made from a gold alloy, which may include copper and other metals to improve strength and wear resistance.

Pros of Gold Fillings

• Extremely durable: Can last 15–30 years, making it one of the longest-lasting options.
• Strong under pressure: Ideal for people who grind their teeth or have strong chewing forces.
• Doesn’t corrode: Gold remains stable and won’t break down in the mouth.

Cons of Gold Fillings:

• Very noticeable: The shiny metallic color doesn’t blend in, which may be a dealbreaker for visible teeth.
• Costly: Often the most expensive option, especially since it requires multiple visits and lab work.
• Time-consuming: You’ll likely need at least two appointments (one for impressions, one for placement).

Ceramic Fillings (Porcelain Fillings)

Ceramic fillings are made from porcelain and are custom-crafted to match your tooth color. Like gold, they’re made in a lab and then bonded into place. Ceramic is a great choice for people who want natural-looking results with added durability, especially on visible or stressed teeth.

What Are Ceramic Fillings Made Of?

These are typically made from porcelain, a glass-like material that’s highly aesthetic and stain-resistant. Some high-end ceramics are reinforced with other materials for added strength.

Pros of Ceramic Fillings:

• Great aesthetics: Looks almost identical to natural enamel. Highly resistant to staining.
• Longer lasting than composite: Can last 10–15 years or more when properly cared for.
• Biocompatible: No risk of allergic reactions or sensitivity to metals.

Cons of Ceramic Fillings:

• More expensive than composite: Due to lab work and materials used.
• Brittle in thin areas: Can crack if not thick enough, so more of the natural tooth may need to be removed.
• Multiple appointments: Usually requires at least two visits (or a CEREC machine for same-day placement).

Your dentist will choose a filling material based on factors like where the cavity is, how big it is, how visible the tooth is when you smile, and whether you’ve had any allergies or reactions to dental materials before. But you’re not stuck with one option—you can always ask, compare, and choose what works best for you.

The Importance of Dental Fillings

Tooth fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, cracks, or wear. When a cavity forms, your dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth and fills the space with a special material to restore its shape and function.

So, What Does A Filling Do

It basically acts like a patch. It seals off the space left behind after decay is removed, protects the tooth from further damage, and restores your ability to chew comfortably.

How Does A Filling Work

The filling material bonds to your natural tooth, creating a tight seal. This prevents bacteria from getting inside and causing more decay. Depending on the material used, it might harden instantly with a special light (like in composite fillings), or it might be crafted outside the mouth and bonded later (like with gold or ceramic fillings).

Why Are Fillings Important

If cavities are left untreated, the decay can spread deeper into the tooth and even reach the nerve, which can cause pain and eventually lead to root canals or extractions. Fillings help you avoid that. They stop cavities in their tracks and restore your tooth to full function.

What Happens When You Get a Filling?

If this is your first time getting a filling—or if it’s just been a while—you might be wondering what actually goes down during the procedure. Good news: it’s a pretty routine and straightforward process. Here’s what to expect during the cavity filling procedure:

Numbing the Area

Your dentist will start by applying a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding gums. This ensures you won’t feel pain during the procedure. You might feel some pressure or vibration, but not actual discomfort.

Removing the Decay

Once you’re numb, the dentist uses a small drill or laser to remove the decayed part of the tooth. This step is important because all the damaged or infected material needs to be cleared out before sealing the area.

Cleaning the Tooth

After the decay is removed, your dentist carefully cleans the cavity to eliminate any remaining bacteria or debris. This step is crucial because even a tiny bit of leftover bacteria can lead to further decay under the filling.

Sometimes, an antibacterial solution is used to disinfect the area—especially if the cavity was deep. While this isn’t the same as a teeth cleaning appointment, it serves a similar purpose: removing harmful bacteria to keep your tooth healthy and protected before sealing it up.

Filling the Tooth

Now comes the actual filling. The dentist places the filling material—composite, amalgam, gold, or ceramic—into the cleaned-out space. Some materials, like composite resin, are applied in layers and hardened with a special light after each layer.

Shaping and Polishing

Once the filling is in place, your dentist will shape it to match the natural contours of your tooth and ensure your bite feels normal. They’ll check your bite by having you bite down on carbon paper, then make any adjustments so everything feels just right.

Finally, the filling is polished to smooth out any rough edges and give it a natural shine—this also helps prevent plaque buildup around the filling in the future.

How Do Dentists Fill Cavities?

When your dentist recommends a filling, it means they’ve found a spot of decay that needs to be cleaned out and restored. The dental filling procedure is a routine process that helps stop the decay from spreading and brings your tooth back to full function.

If you’ve ever wondered how dentists actually fill cavities or what happens during the appointment, here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect—step by step.

How Do Dentists Choose the Right Filling for You?

Not all fillings are created equal—and not every type is right for every tooth. Dentists consider several key factors when deciding which tooth filling material is the best fit for your situation. Here’s what usually goes into that decision:

Location of the Cavity

The location of the cavity plays a big role in determining which type of filling is best. Cavities in the back teeth—like molars—are subject to the most chewing pressure, so dentists often recommend stronger materials such as amalgam or gold for those areas.

On the other hand, front teeth are more visible when you smile or talk, so tooth-colored options like composite resin or ceramic are usually preferred for a more natural appearance.

Size and Depth of the Cavity

Larger cavities or those that reach deeper into the tooth may require a more durable material.

For example, gold or ceramic fillings are ideal when a stronger, longer-lasting restoration is needed. Smaller cavities can usually be handled with composite resin.

Aesthetic Preferences

If having a natural-looking smile is important to you, your dentist may recommend a composite or ceramic filling, especially for teeth that show when you talk or smile. These blend in well with the natural tooth color.

Budget and Insurance Coverages

Budget and insurance coverage are also important factors when choosing a filling. Some materials cost significantly more than others. Sometimes, your dental provider would package teeth cleaning costs with your filling.

Amalgam is typically the most affordable option, making it a common choice for patients on a budget. Gold and ceramic fillings tend to be more expensive due to the lab work and specialized materials involved. In many cases, insurance will cover some—but not all—types of fillings, which can play a big role in the final decision.

Allergies or Sensitivities

Allergies or sensitivities can also influence the type of filling your dentist recommends. If you have a known metal allergy—especially to mercury, nickel, or other metals commonly used in amalgam or gold alloys—those materials will typically be avoided. Symptoms might include:

• Irritation
• a burning sensation
• discomfort after receiving a metal-based filling

Tooth-colored materials like composite resin or ceramic are considered safer and more biocompatible options. These are metal-free and well-tolerated by patients with sensitivities, making them a preferred choice for people with a history of allergic reactions to dental materials.

Longevity Expectations

Want something that’ll last decades? Gold or ceramic might be your best bet.

Looking for a quick, budget-friendly fix? Amalgam or composite could be a better match. Your dentist will weigh durability vs. cost and let you know what to expect from each material.

Your Input Matters, Too

While your dentist will guide you based on clinical factors, the final choice is usually made together. You can ask about different types of dental filling, compare the pros and cons, and decide what’s right for you.

FAQs About Fillings for Teeth