Key Takeaways
- Dental fillings in Riverpark come in two main types: amalgam (silver) and composite (tooth-colored), each with pros and cons.
- Amalgam fillings are strong, long-lasting, and cost-effective, making them ideal for back teeth under heavy chewing pressure.
- Composite fillings look natural, preserve more tooth structure, and blend with your smile, though they may need replacement sooner.
- Picking the right filling for a tooth depends on where the tooth is, how big the hole is, how it looks, and what you like.
- At Clove Dental in Riverpark, patients get easy-to-understand instructions and special advice. This helps make sure each filling keeps their smile safe.
Cavities don’t wait. Once you’ve got one, the only way to stop it from spreading is with a filling. At Clove Dental, we usually give patients two choices: amalgam (the silver-looking one) or composite (the white, tooth-colored one). Both work. Both last. But they’re different in ways you should know about before saying yes in the chair.
Amalgam Fillings – Old but Strong
Amalgam’s been around for more than 100 years. There’s a reason it stuck around; it’s tough. We still use it in Riverpark when we need something that holds up under chewing pressure, especially in back molars.
What’s good about amalgam:
- It’s strong. You can chew without worrying.
- It usually costs less than composite.
- It often lasts 10, 12, or sometimes 15 years if taken care of.
But here’s the downside:
- It’s silver. On a back tooth, no big deal. On a front tooth, you’ll see it every time you smile.
- We usually have to take out a little more of the natural tooth to place it.
- Metal fillings expand and contract with hot and cold, which can sometimes stress the tooth.
So yes, they’re durable. But they’re not invisible.
Composite Fillings – Blends In, Looks Natural
Composite fillings are newer and a lot of patients in Riverpark prefer them. Why? Because you can barely see them. They’re made from a resin material that bonds to the tooth.
Good things about composite:
- They look like your natural teeth.
- They bond directly, so we don’t have to drill as much.
- Smaller cavities = great fit.
- If they chip, we can usually repair instead of replacing the whole thing.
Not-so-good parts:
- They don’t always last as long as amalgam for very large fillings.
- Placement takes longer, layer by layer, cured with a light.
- They may cost a bit more than metal fillings.
So they’re prettier, but not always the “forever” option.
What We See in Riverpark
Most patients at Clove Dental in Riverpark today lean toward composite. People don’t want a silver spot showing when they laugh. Younger patients, especially, go straight for tooth-colored fillings. Still, we use amalgam when a cavity is big and strength matters most.
Sometimes, someone asks, “Should I replace my old silver fillings with white ones?” We don’t push that unless the old filling is cracked, leaking, or the tooth around it has new decay. If it’s solid, let it do its job.
Cost and Longevity
Here’s the honest breakdown:
- Amalgam: cheaper, lasts longer, not pretty.
- Composite: more natural looking, saves more tooth, may cost a little extra, may need replacing sooner.
Insurance often covers both, but sometimes pays less for a composite on back teeth. We check that before starting, so you’re not surprised.
What the Appointment Looks Like
No matter what type of dental filling you pick, the process is pretty much the same.
- We numb the tooth.
- Decay is cleaned out.
- Filling material is placed.
- We shape and check your bite so it feels natural.
Most appointments are done in under an hour. You walk out with the tooth protected and ready to use.
Common Questions Patients Ask
“Are silver fillings safe?”
Yes. The mercury in amalgam is bound with other metals and is stable. Studies show it’s safe for most people.
“How long do white fillings last?”
On average, 7–10 years, though many last longer with good brushing and cleanings.
“What’s better for a front tooth?”
Composite. Always. Appearance matters.
Our Take at Clove Dental
We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all answer. Some teeth need strength, some need appearance. Sometimes you need both. That’s why we sit down, show you the options, and explain what makes sense for your situation.
Bottom line? The best filling is the one that stops decay and keeps your smile healthy, whether that’s silver or tooth-colored.
If you’re in Riverpark and need dental fillings, don’t wait around. Cavities only grow, and the sooner we catch them, the smaller and cheaper the fix. Call Clove Dental in Riverpark, and we’ll help you choose between amalgam and composite, based on your teeth, not just a chart.
