Replace Old Silver Fillings
Many patients in Barrhaven still have old silver (amalgam) fillings from childhood or past dental work. While these restorations served their purpose, they are often unsightly, can cause the surrounding tooth structure to darken, and contain trace amounts of mercury.
At Barrhaven Dental Fillings, we provide safe and effective silver filling replacement, upgrading your old metal restorations to modern, tooth-coloured composite resin.
Why Replace Amalgam Fillings
Aesthetic Improvement
Silver fillings are dark and noticeable when you laugh or speak. Composite resin is shade-matched to your exact tooth colour, rendering the restoration invisible.
Structural Integrity
Metal expands and contracts with temperature changes, which can eventually crack the tooth. Composite resin flexes at a rate similar to natural teeth.
Better Seal
Amalgam simply rests in the cavity, whereas composite chemically bonds to the enamel, creating a tighter seal against bacteria and recurrent decay.
Composite vs. Silver Amalgam
See how modern composite compares to traditional silver amalgam fillings.
| Feature | Composite (Modern) | Amalgam (Silver) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Tooth-coloured, invisible | Dark silver / black |
| Bonding | Chemical bond to tooth | Mechanical retention only |
| Tooth Preparation | Conservative (less drilling) | Requires undercuts (more drilling) |
| Mercury Content | 100% mercury-free | Contains ~50% mercury |
| Temperature Response | Flexes like natural enamel | Expands & contracts with heat/cold |
The Replacement Process
Replacing an old metal filling is a comfortable, single-visit procedure. Here's what to expect.
- 1
Assessment
We evaluate each old filling and the tooth around it before recommending replacement.
- 2
Safe Removal
The old metal filling is carefully removed under strict safety protocols.
- 3
Clean & Prepare
The cavity is thoroughly cleaned and any new decay is addressed.
- 4
Composite Placement
Tooth-coloured resin is bonded and cured in layers for strength.
- 5
Shape & Polish
We refine your bite and polish for a natural, comfortable finish.
Safe Removal & Your Health
We remove old amalgam under careful, well-established safety protocols, then immediately place a durable composite restoration. If you'd like to read more about dental amalgam, Health Canada offers clear public guidance.
Learn more about dental amalgam from Health Canada , or explore our natural white fillings for the most discreet results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I replace my silver fillings?
Older amalgam fillings are dark and noticeable, can cause the surrounding tooth to darken, may expand and contract with temperature changes (risking cracks), and contain mercury. Upgrading to composite gives you a natural look, a tighter seal, and a metal-free restoration.
Is removing amalgam fillings safe?
Yes. We remove old metal fillings using careful, well-established safety protocols to minimize exposure, then immediately place a high-quality composite restoration. Health Canada provides public guidance on dental amalgam if you'd like to learn more.
Do I need to replace all my silver fillings at once?
Not necessarily. Many patients replace fillings gradually — for example, prioritizing visible teeth or any filling showing signs of wear, cracking, or leakage. We'll help you plan an approach that fits your needs and budget.
Will the new composite filling match my teeth?
Yes. We shade-match the composite to your natural tooth colour so the new restoration blends in seamlessly and is virtually invisible.
How long does the replacement take?
Replacing a single filling typically takes one comfortable visit of roughly 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and number of fillings being upgraded.
Ready to restore your smile?
Book your consultation today with the trusted team at Barrhaven Dental Fillings.