When a tooth breaks or develops decay, it needs to be restored to its original shape, strength, and function. Today, there are several types of materials available for dental fillings, and each one has unique advantages. Understanding these differences helps you make informed decisions about your dental care.
At Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris, we offer a wide range of modern, durable, and aesthetic filling materials to suit your individual needs.
1. Composite (Tooth-Coloured) Fillings
Composite fillings have evolved significantly over the past 40 years and are now considered one of the best restorative materials for most situations. They are made from a blend of resin and tiny glass or ceramic particles. The smaller these particles are—known as nano fillers—the smoother, stronger, and more durable the final restoration becomes.
Benefits of composite fillings:
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Reinforce and strengthen the remaining tooth structure
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Bond to the tooth, allowing for more conservative (minimal drilling) treatment
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Match the natural colour of your teeth for an aesthetic result
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Do not conduct heat or cold, helping reduce sensitivity
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Suitable for restoring small and large portions of a tooth
These are the most commonly used fillings in our Glen Iris practice due to their excellent performance and appearance.
2. Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
Amalgam has been used for over 150 years. It is a mixture of silver, copper, tin, and mercury that sets into a strong and durable filling.
Advantages:
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Low cost
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Long track record of durability
Disadvantages:
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Contains mercury
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Does not reinforce the tooth; may weaken thin enamel areas
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Can cause temperature sensitivity due to heat conduction
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Requires more removal of healthy tooth structure compared to composite
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Silver appearance is less aesthetic
While still effective in certain cases, amalgam is used far less frequently today.
3. Ceramic (Porcelain) Restorations
Ceramic fillings or inlays/onlays are made in a dental laboratory and offer outstanding strength, durability, and aesthetics. They are ideal for visible areas such as front teeth or larger restorations where beauty and longevity matter.
Benefits:
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Very natural appearance
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Smooth, strong, and long-lasting
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Bond securely to the tooth
Disadvantages:
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Higher cost than other filling materials
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Require additional time to be designed and fabricated
We use ceramic restorations extensively for veneers and larger aesthetic cases.
4. Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC)
Glass ionomer fillings are made of glass particles mixed with acrylic resin. They are not as strong as composite or ceramic, so their lifespan is usually under five years.
Best used for:
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Baby teeth
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Areas with exposed root surfaces
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Cases with high risk of decay
Key advantage:
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Release fluoride, which helps protect the tooth from further decay
These are particularly helpful for young children and patients with sensitivity or root exposure.
5. Gold Restorations
Gold fillings and crowns have been used for hundreds of years and remain one of the most durable materials available. They can be made from 14k, 18k, or 24k gold.
Benefits:
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Extremely durable—can last over 30 years
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Non-corrosive and biocompatible
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Excellent fit
Disadvantages:
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High cost
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Gold appearance is less aesthetic
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Typically reserved for back teeth where they won’t show
Gold remains an excellent choice for longevity and strength.
Which Filling Material Is Right for You?
The ideal filling material depends on:
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Tooth location
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Size of the cavity
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Aesthetic considerations
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Your bite
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Budget
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Long-term treatment goals
At Tooronga Family Dentistry, we carefully assess your needs and recommend the most suitable option.
To learn more about dental fillings or to book an appointment with Dr Daniel Kaufman, please 👉Call or book online Tooronga Family Dentistry on (03) 9822 7006.
📍 We proudly care for the smiles of the Glen Iris, Tooronga, Malvern and Hawthorn East communities.