February 18, 2025

Understanding Different Types of Dental Fillings

Need a filling and not sure which material to pick? This updated Canadian guide explains the main options, what they look like, how long they last, how they compare on cost, and simple ways to choose what fits your tooth, your smile, and your budget.

Which dental filling is best for me?

The best filling depends on where the cavity is, how hard you bite, how you want it to look, and your budget. Small front fillings often suit composite (tooth coloured). Large back fillings may last longer with ceramic or gold. Ask your dentist to match the material to your goals.

A filling repairs a small hole (cavity) or a chip so the tooth can work and look normal again. In Canada, fillings are usually listed under “basic” care on many benefit plans, and most plans cover part of the cost. Tooth decay is very common here—national surveys show most adults have had a cavity at some point—so fillings are routine care.

If you’re curious about what goes into each material, see what cavity fillings are made of for an easy look at composition.

Amalgam (silver-coloured) fillings

Amalgam is a mix of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury bound together. It’s strong, reliable, and has been used safely in dentistry for generations.

Pros

• Very durable for back teeth that handle heavy chewing
• Often costs less than tooth-coloured options
• Less sensitive to moisture during placement, which helps in hard-to-isolate areas

Cons

• Silver colour shows when you laugh or smile
• Sometimes requires removing a bit more tooth to hold the filling
• Contains mercury, which some patients prefer to avoid

“The Canadian Dental Association supports the regulated use of dental amalgam as a safe, durable and effective restorative material.” — Canadian Dental Association, Position on Dental Amalgam

Bottom line: amalgam is a workhorse for back molars when strength and longevity matter most, and appearance matters less.

Composite resin (tooth-coloured) fillings

Composite is a blend of plastic and tiny glass particles. Dentists bond it directly to your tooth, which helps preserve more natural structure and blend colour.

Pros

• Matches your tooth for a natural look
• Bonds to tooth, often allowing a smaller filling
• Versatile for front and back teeth; can also repair chips

Cons

• Can wear or chip faster than metal if the filling is very large on a back tooth
• Takes longer to place and can cost more than amalgam
• May stain over time if you drink a lot of coffee/tea or smoke

Still weighing appearance against durability? Compare them head-to-head in composite vs amalgam fillings to see what fits your situation.

Ceramic or porcelain (inlays/onlays)

Ceramic (often porcelain) is custom-made to match your tooth. It’s used as an inlay or onlay (lab-made pieces that fit into or onto the tooth) when a standard filling would be too large. These are designed to look very natural and handle strong chewing forces.

Pros

• Excellent colour and shine; looks like real enamel
• Resists staining better than composite
• Long-lasting in many cases (often 10–15+ years)

Cons

• Higher cost than composite or amalgam
• Often needs two visits unless your clinic offers same-day milling (CAD/CAM, a computer-guided design and milling system)
• Can be brittle if very thin; design and bite forces matter

Good fit: bigger cavities, replacing large old fillings, and when you want top-tier looks with strength.

Gold inlays and onlays

Gold is a special alloy (mix of metals) made for strength and long-term wear. It’s less common today, but many dentists still consider it the most durable choice for heavy-bite areas.

Pros

• Exceptional longevity (often 20+ years with good care)
• Gentle to the opposing tooth when you bite
• Excellent fit and strength

Cons

• Noticeable colour (some love the look; others don’t)
• Premium cost and usually two visits
• Requires a mold or digital scan and a lab-made part

Glass ionomer fillings

Glass ionomer is a blend of glass powder and acrylic. It bonds to the tooth and slowly releases fluoride (a mineral that helps protect enamel), which can help in areas that are hard to keep dry or clean.

Pros

• Fluoride release may reduce future decay
• Bonds to tooth and is gentle at the gumline
• Useful for root-surface cavities, baby teeth, and small non-biting areas

Cons

• Not as strong as composite or ceramic on biting surfaces
• Less glossy and less stain-resistant than composite
• Often used as a temporary or small-area solution in adults

How to choose the right material

There’s no single “best” filling for everyone. Your dentist will match the material to your tooth, your bite (how your teeth meet when you close), and your goals. Here’s a quick way to think about it:

Tooth location and bite forces

• Front teeth: composite or ceramic for a natural look
• Back molars with heavy chewing: amalgam, ceramic, or gold for strength

Appearance goals

• In highly visible areas, composite or ceramic blends best

Budget

• Amalgam and composite are generally more affordable; ceramic and gold are premium choices

Longevity

• Gold and ceramic often last longest; composite and glass ionomer may need earlier replacement in heavy-bite areas

Moisture control and gumline cavities

• Glass ionomer can be smart when an area is hard to keep dry (for example, near the gums)

Kids and interim care

• Glass ionomer is often used in children or as a step before a long-term restoration

Want to see how newer options work in real life? Explore modern tooth filling methods and what they mean for comfort and durability.

Placement, appointments, and aftercare

Most composite or amalgam fillings happen in one visit. The dentist numbs the area, removes decay, shapes the space, and places the material. With composite, the material is layered and hardened with a special light. With amalgam, it’s placed and shaped before you leave.

Ceramic or gold inlays/onlays are typically two-visit treatments: first visit for tooth preparation and scan (or mold), and a second visit to cement the lab-made piece. Some clinics offer same-day ceramic inlays/onlays using CAD/CAM, which can reduce this to a single visit.

Aftercare tips: avoid chewing while you’re numb, because you could bite your cheek or tongue. Mild temperature sensitivity can happen for a few days. This usually settles as the tooth adjusts. If your bite feels “high,” call your dentist for a quick adjustment.

Longevity and care

Average lifespans vary by tooth, bite, filling size, and habits:

• Amalgam: often 10–15 years or more
• Composite: often 5–10 years (longer for small fillings and lighter bites)
• Ceramic: often 10–15+ years
• Gold: often 20+ years
• Glass ionomer: often shorter in biting areas; can be longer in low-stress spots

Good daily care matters: brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between teeth daily, and see your dentist regularly. Many Canadian plans cover part of basic fillings, but coverage varies by province and plan. Your dental team can give a cost estimate before treatment.

Safety and mercury

All materials used in Canada are regulated for safety. Amalgam has been studied for decades. Large health bodies consider its regulated use safe for most people. If you prefer a metal-free option, composite or ceramic are good choices. If you have allergies, sensitivities, or questions about mercury, let your dentist know so they can suggest the right material for you. For a deeper look at ingredients, see what cavity fillings are made of.

Costs and coverage in Canada

Fees vary by province, tooth, and size of the filling, and whether the restoration is lab-made. In general, amalgam and composite cost less than ceramic or gold. Many plans help with basic fillings; lab-made inlays/onlays and gold are often classed as major treatment with lower coverage. Your clinic can pre-check your plan and provide a written estimate.

Conclusion

Choosing a filling is about balance: strength, appearance, budget, and how long you want it to last. Small front-tooth cavities usually look best with composite. Larger back-tooth repairs often last longer with ceramic or even gold. If keeping the area dry is tricky or the cavity is near the gumline, glass ionomer can help. Talk through your goals and day-to-day habits with your dentist. Together, you’ll pick the material that fits your tooth, your smile, and your life.

FAQ

Which filling looks the most natural?

Composite and ceramic both look very natural. Composite works well for small to medium fillings. Ceramic (porcelain) inlays/onlays are ideal for larger areas that also need strength and stain resistance.

Are silver (amalgam) fillings safe?

Major dental bodies consider regulated amalgam safe and effective. If you want a metal-free option, composite or ceramic are good choices. Share your health history and preferences so your dentist can guide you.

How long will my filling last?

It depends on size, bite forces, and habits. Many composites last 5–10 years, while ceramic and gold can last longer. Avoid chewing ice, manage grinding (a night guard can help), and keep up with cleanings.

Will I need more than one visit?

Composite and amalgam are usually done in one visit. Ceramic or gold inlays/onlays often take two visits unless your clinic offers same-day CAD/CAM milling.

What if my cavity is near the gumline?

Glass ionomer can bond well and release fluoride in moist or hard-to-isolate spots. In some cases, your dentist may layer materials (for example, glass ionomer plus composite) for a balance of strength and protection.

How do I compare the main materials quickly?

Think looks, strength, and cost. Composite blends best and suits small to medium areas. Amalgam is tough and budget friendly for back teeth. Ceramic balances strength and beauty for bigger repairs. Gold lasts longest. See composite vs amalgam fillings and newer filling methods for more detail.

Understanding Different Types of Dental Fillings

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