Medically reviewed by Gordana Čižmek, dr. dent. med., spec. · Last updated: July 2026
Quick takeaways
- White (composite) fillings match your natural tooth colour and are almost invisible; amalgam is grey but very hard-wearing.
- White fillings are gentle on the tooth and typically last five to seven years; amalgam usually lasts longer.
- At OrthoDental a white filling costs €100 (one surface), €120 (two surfaces) or €150 (three to four surfaces).
- Old amalgam fillings can be safely removed with a rubber dam and replaced with a natural-looking white filling.
In dentistry, fillings are one of the most common ways to keep teeth healthy and working properly. When a tooth is affected by decay or other damage, a filling helps preserve a healthy smile for as long as possible. The main decision is usually which type to choose, and the two most common options are white (composite) fillings and amalgam fillings. White fillings are popular for their natural appearance, while amalgam fillings have been a reliable choice for decades.
Do you know the basics about dental fillings?
Fillings are dental materials used to restore damaged or decayed teeth. Their main job is to rebuild the shape and function of the tooth while preventing further decay and protecting it from bacteria. A filling is needed once a tooth is too damaged to be saved by other means.
What are amalgam fillings?
Amalgam fillings contain amalgam, a mixture of several metals such as mercury, copper, tin and zinc. Thanks to their durability and long lifespan, they have been a dental standard for decades. Although they contain mercury, they are considered safe because the amount released is very low.
Why do we need fillings at all?
Fillings restore teeth affected by decay or other damage. By sealing the space left after decay is removed, they stop bacteria from getting back in. Without them, teeth would more often need to be extracted, which can lead to further health problems. Wondering what kind of filling your child might need? Read more about paediatric dentistry.
Fundamental differences between white and amalgam fillings
White fillings are made from a mixture of plastic resins and fine glass or ceramic particles. This makes them strong yet flexible enough to be shaped precisely to the tooth, and they can be tinted to match the natural colour of your tooth for a discreet, natural result.
Amalgam fillings are valued for their durability and long lifespan, but their grey colour makes them more noticeable, and they contain mercury. The main differences therefore lie in the material, appearance and durability.
Why is it a good idea to replace amalgam fillings?
Replacing amalgam fillings is recommended in some cases, as they can wear or crack over time and let bacteria back in. This can cause re-infection and new decay beneath the existing filling. Swapping amalgam for a more aesthetic material such as a white filling can also give patients a more natural, attractive smile.
How does amalgam filling removal work?
- Assessment and diagnostics: your OrthoDental dentist examines your teeth and checks the condition of the existing filling, along with any decay or other problems.
- Removing the old filling: the dentist carefully removes the old amalgam using specialised tools for precise, safe removal.
- Cleaning the cavity: any remaining decay is removed and the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, ready for the new filling.
- Placing the new filling: a new material, such as a white filling colour-matched to your teeth, is placed into the prepared cavity.
- Curing the filling: the dentist shapes the material and cures it with a special light for strength and longevity.
- Grinding and polishing: a final grind and polish give a smooth, natural feel and an attractive finish.
Safe removal of amalgam fillings with a rubber dam
During removal, a rubber dam can act as a protective barrier between the tooth and the rest of the mouth. It stops particles of the old filling, mercury and amalgam from touching the oral mucosa or tongue or being swallowed, giving a safer, cleaner working environment throughout the procedure.
What about harmful gases during filling replacement?
When replacing fillings of any kind, dentists use modern techniques and equipment to minimise your exposure to any gases or dust, keeping the procedure safe and comfortable.
What advantages do white (composite) fillings offer?
A white filling is a versatile, modern solution. It can fill small, medium or large cavities, which is essential in treating decay, and it is very gentle on the tooth: only the damaged part is removed, so the healthy tooth structure stays intact.
White fillings can also replace existing amalgam fillings for a more aesthetic look. They blend in with the natural colour of the teeth and are almost invisible.
A white filling is also an excellent way to correct the shape of a damaged or worn tooth, restoring a natural, attractive appearance.
Are there any disadvantages to white fillings?
Composite fillings do have some limits. Their lifespan averages five to seven years, shorter than amalgam, and placing them takes a little longer because the work is more precise. This can be harder for children or people who find it difficult to sit still for long. White fillings can also stain over time, especially with a lot of coffee, tea or wine.
Are white fillings less durable than amalgam fillings?
Materials have improved greatly in recent years. White fillings were traditionally seen as less durable than amalgam, but today’s composites last increasingly longer. Durability still depends on the size and position of the filling, your oral hygiene and regular check-ups.
White fillings on front teeth
A white filling can be placed on the front teeth. The dentist removes the damaged or decayed part, prepares the surface and shapes the composite. Because the front teeth are so visible, the OrthoDental dentist carefully selects the colour to match the rest of your smile.
How long do white fillings last?
With modern materials and techniques, white fillings last on average five to seven years, though this varies with oral hygiene, eating habits and regular check-ups. Correct placement also helps them last.
The price of a white filling compared with an amalgam filling
A white filling may cost slightly more than an amalgam one, partly because of the high-quality, aesthetic materials and the more involved placement. At OrthoDental our prices are clear and explained before you decide. A white filling costs €100 for a single-surface filling, €120 for a two-surface filling and €150 for a filling covering three or four surfaces. You can also pay in 84 instalments through our partner Leanpay.
How durable are the different fillings?
Price and durability vary with the material and the complexity of the work. Amalgam fillings tend to be slightly cheaper and are known for their durability, while white fillings offer excellent aesthetics and good durability. At OrthoDental we explain the price and lifespan of each option so you can make an informed choice for your dental health and appearance.
Pain and problems after a filling
After a new filling – white or amalgam – the tooth may be briefly sensitive to temperature, pressure or sweet foods. This usually settles within a few days to weeks. If pain persists or worsens, contact your dentist to check that the filling is correctly placed.
How harmful are amalgam fillings?
Amalgam has been used in dentistry for many years. Expert bodies such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) consider amalgam fillings safe for most people. Even so, more patients now choose to have amalgam replaced with metal-free white fillings, mainly for aesthetic reasons.
Is it possible to have teeth without fillings?
Yes – with good preventive care. Thorough brushing and flossing, regular check-ups and a balanced diet are the key steps to preventing decay that would otherwise need a filling.
Why get fillings even if nothing hurts?
Even well-placed fillings can weaken or crack over time, allowing decay to return beneath them. Replacing an old filling is a proactive way to prevent bigger problems. Visit us at OrthoDental to keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright. And if decay is very deep or a granuloma cannot be treated with a filling, read more about root canal treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Are white and amalgam fillings safe?
Yes. Health bodies including the WHO and the FDA consider amalgam safe for most people, and white composite fillings are metal-free. Many patients still choose to replace amalgam for aesthetic reasons.
How long do white fillings last?
On average five to seven years, depending on the size and position of the filling, your oral hygiene and regular check-ups.
How much does a white filling cost at OrthoDental?
€100 for a single surface, €120 for two surfaces and €150 for three to four surfaces, with the option to pay in instalments through Leanpay.
Does it hurt after a filling?
The tooth can be briefly sensitive to temperature, pressure or sweet foods. This usually settles within days; contact your dentist if it persists.
Related reading
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Avtor prispevka
Gordana Čižmek
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