10 Different Types of Dental Fillings: Pros, Cons, and Which One to Choose

You may need a dental filling if you have a cavity, tooth sensitivity, visible holes in your teeth, or a broken or worn-down tooth. Fillings help restore the tooth’s structure and prevent bacteria from entering and causing more serious problems like infections or abscesses.

Fillings aren’t just about patching things up; they’re a critical part of keeping your teeth strong and healthy in the long run. They also make it possible for you to chew and smile comfortably again. 

When it comes to choosing a filling, the right choice depends on several factors: the location of the tooth, how visible it is when you smile, how much pressure the tooth handles when chewing, your cosmetic preferences, and, of course, your budget.

Your dentist will consider all these aspects to help you decide.

Let’s break down the 10 different types of dental fillings, their pros and cons, and which one suits you best.

Types of Dental Fillings

Filling Type	Material	Main Benefit	Best For
Amalgam	Silver + metals	Very strong & durable	Back teeth
Composite	Tooth-colored resin	Natural look	Front or visible teeth
Ceramic	Porcelain	Stain-resistant & aesthetic	Visible areas, larger fillings
Gold	Gold alloy	Long-lasting & strong	Chewing surfaces
Resin	Soft resin	Quick and inexpensive	Temporary or small fillings
Glass Ionomer	Acrylic + glass	Releases fluoride	Near gums, baby teeth
Resin Ionomer	Glass ionomer + resin	Better look than glass only	Small cavities, low-pressure areas
Porcelain	High-quality ceramic	Looks natural, very durable	Cosmetic restorations
Stainless Steel	Metal	Temporary & durable for kids	Baby teeth (children)
Temporary	Various soft materials	Short-term solution	Before permanent filling

There are several types of dental fillings available today, each made from different materials and offering different benefits. Let’s explore the most common ones and what they’re best suited for.

1. Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)

Amalgam fillings have been around for over a century. They’re made from a mix of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. While their silver color makes them quite visible, especially when you smile or laugh, they are known for their strength and durability.

These fillings are typically used in back teeth where chewing pressure is highest. They’re also more affordable compared to many modern alternatives, making them a practical option if aesthetics aren’t your main concern.

2. Composite Fillings (Tooth-Colored Fillings)

Composite fillings are made of a resin-based material that closely matches the color of your natural teeth. This makes them an excellent option for front teeth or any visible area. They blend in seamlessly with your smile and are often chosen for cosmetic reasons.

They’re less durable than amalgam, especially on larger cavities, but they’re still a popular choice thanks to their natural look. They bond well with your tooth, and the process usually removes less of your healthy tooth structure compared to silver fillings.

3. Ceramic Fillings

Ceramic fillings, often made of porcelain, are strong and look very natural. They’re stain-resistant and can last a long time if cared for properly. People often choose ceramic when they want something that looks great and is less likely to discolor over time.

They do cost more than composite or amalgam fillings, and the procedure may take longer, especially if a dental lab is involved in creating the custom piece. But if you’re looking for both aesthetics and durability, ceramic is a solid choice.

4. Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are extremely durable and long-lasting. They don’t corrode, and they can withstand years of chewing without breaking down. Some patients like the look of gold, while others prefer more discreet options.

These fillings are among the most expensive and usually require two visits to place. Still, for those seeking strength and longevity, and don’t mind the color, gold is considered one of the best materials in terms of wear and tear.

5. Resin Fillings

Resin fillings are similar to composites, but typically softer and used for temporary or small restorations. They’re often placed in baby teeth or for short-term solutions. They’re affordable and easy to work with, but not meant for long-term use on chewing surfaces.

Because they wear out faster, they’re rarely used in adult molars or places under high pressure.

6. Glass Ionomer Fillings

These fillings are made of a blend of acrylic and glass. One of their unique benefits is that they release fluoride, which helps protect the tooth from further decay. They’re usually used in non-biting areas, such as near the gumline or in baby teeth.

They don’t last as long as composite or ceramic fillings, and their appearance isn’t as natural. But their fluoride-releasing property makes them a smart choice for patients who are prone to cavities.

7. Resin Ionomer Fillings

A combination of glass ionomer and resin materials, resin ionomer fillings offer better aesthetics and strength than traditional glass ionomers. They’re used for small cavities and are especially useful in areas that don’t endure a lot of pressure.

They’re still not as strong as composite or ceramic fillings, but are a practical option in certain clinical cases, especially in younger patients or around the gumline.

8. Porcelain Fillings

Porcelain fillings are very similar to ceramic and are often considered the same by many patients. They offer excellent aesthetics and durability and are often used for larger restorations, like inlays and onlays.

They’re crafted to match your tooth exactly and are custom-made in a dental lab. Because of this, they tend to cost more but offer exceptional results in terms of both look and longevity.

9. Stainless Steel Fillings

Stainless steel fillings are typically used in children’s teeth as a temporary solution until the primary tooth falls out. They’re quick to place, inexpensive, and durable enough to last until the baby tooth is naturally lost.

They’re not used in permanent teeth, except in very specific situations, and are meant as a short-term fix rather than a long-term restoration.

10. Temporary Fillings

Sometimes you need a filling for just a short period, like between root canal appointments or when a permanent filling can’t be placed right away. That’s where temporary fillings come in.

They’re easy to apply and remove, but not very durable. You should always return to your dentist to have them replaced with a permanent option as soon as possible.

For more detailed medical information on how fillings work and the materials used, you can also check out this helpful guide on dental fillings from WebMD.

Pros and Cons of Each Type of Filling

This section helps you understand what’s good and what’s not so great about each type of dental filling, so you can easily decide what might work best for your teeth and your budget.

Advantages of Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings are the silver ones you’ve probably seen before. They’ve been used for a very long time because they’re strong and last many years, perfect for back teeth that do a lot of chewing. They’re also cheaper than most other types. But they don’t look natural since they’re silver, and some people don’t like the idea of metal in their mouth.

Pros and Cons of Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are tooth-colored, so they blend in well. They’re great for front teeth or any visible spot when you smile. They look natural and feel smooth, but they don’t last as long as silver ones, especially on back teeth. They’re also a bit more expensive, but many people choose them just for the nicer appearance.

Durability and Aesthetics of Ceramic Fillings

Ceramic (porcelain) fillings are strong and look just like real teeth. They don’t stain easily and can last a long time. People often choose them for bigger or more visible cavities when they want something that looks good and holds up well. The downside is that they cost more, and sometimes they take two visits to finish.

Why Choose Gold Fillings?

Gold fillings last the longest, sometimes over 20 years. They’re super strong and great for people who grind their teeth. But they are the most expensive, and the gold color makes them very noticeable. If you want something that lasts and don’t mind the look, gold is a solid choice.

Cost and Longevity of Resin Fillings

Resin fillings are softer and usually used for small cavities or as a temporary fix. They’re quick to place and affordable, and they match your tooth color. But they’re not the best for long-term use, especially on teeth that take a lot of pressure. They’re good for small problems or while you wait for a more permanent filling.

Take a look at this guide from Smile Point Dental to explore other common dental restoration options beyond fillings.

How to Choose the Right Dental Filling for You

It depends on how long you want it to last, how it looks, and how much you want to spend. Here’s how to figure out what works best for you.

Considerations for Durability

If you want your filling to last a long time, go for strong ones like amalgam or gold. These can last many years, even decades. Ceramic is also strong and holds up well. If you don’t need something heavy-duty, composite or resin fillings can work fine, but they may wear out sooner, especially in back teeth.

Aesthetic Preferences and Tooth Color Matching

Want your filling to blend in with your natural teeth? Choose composite, resin, or ceramic. These match your tooth color and look more natural, especially in front teeth. If looks don’t matter to you, like for back molars, amalgam or gold fillings are okay, but they’ll show.

How Your Budget Affects Your Choice of Filling

Some fillings cost more than others. Amalgam is usually the cheapest. Composite costs a bit more because it looks better. Ceramic and gold are the most expensive but also last longer. If you’re on a budget or just need a quick fix, resin or temporary fillings can work for now.

Common Questions About Dental Fillings

Not sure what to expect with fillings? You’re not alone! Here are clear, easy answers to the most common questions patients ask.

Do Fillings Last a Lifetime?

Not usually. Most fillings last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, depending on the type and where they are in your mouth. Gold and ceramic ones can last longer, while composite or resin ones may wear out sooner. Chewing habits, grinding your teeth, and how well you care for your teeth all make a difference, too.

Can I Replace a Filling?

Yes, definitely. Fillings can wear down, crack, or fall out over time. Your dentist can remove the old one and put in a new one, sometimes even a better type than before. If your old silver filling bothers you, you can also replace it with a tooth-colored one for a nicer look.

Are Fillings Painful to Get?

Getting a filling usually doesn’t hurt. Dentists use numbing gel and local anesthesia so you won’t feel pain, just a little pressure or vibration. Afterward, your tooth might feel a bit sensitive for a few days, but that goes away quickly. If you’re nervous, let your dentist know, they can help you feel more relaxed.

Conclusion

Dental fillings are essential tools in restoring and protecting damaged teeth. With so many types available, from traditional silver to high-tech porcelain, there’s a solution for every smile. Talk to your family dentist about your priorities, and you’ll find the filling that fits you best.

FAQs 

Share Your Experience!
Have you had a dental filling recently? What type did you choose? We’d love to hear your story in the comments below.