What many people call silver fillings are actually less than 50% silver. They are more accurately called amalgam fillings. Amalgam is a mixture of some metal with mercury, and the most prevalent element in these fillings is mercury.

Photo of silver amalgam fillings in contrast to tooth-colored mercury-free fillings by your Downers Grove Dentist Dr. Blair.

Many people are worried about the health effects of having mercury in their mouths.

Dr. Karen Blair prefers tooth-colored composite fillings for back teeth.

Advantages of white composite fillings:

  1. They bond to the tooth, which restores most of the original strength of the tooth. Amalgam fillings weaken the teeth.
  2. They require less drilling away of healthy tooth structure to place them.
  3. There is less post-operative sensitivity.
  4. They look more natural.
  5. They are mercury-free.