Why Replace Metal Fillings With Tooth-colored Composite Fillings?

Oct 17, 2023

Dental fillings are very commonly used to help protect teeth and fill areas that are affected by damage or decay from cavities. Our dental team at Great Smiles of La Mesa is eager to provide custom care to every patient that walks through our front doors. An ongoing debate is whether tooth-colored composite fillings are better than regular metal fillings. Continue reading on to see why you should replace your old metal fillings with tooth-colored composite fillings.



Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings are made up of white composite material that closely matches the look of a tooth’s natural enamel. They are a ceramic material that is individually layered on to a tooth in order to further strengthen and protect it.

Is replacing metal fillings common?

Replacing metal fillings has been more common in recent years. This is an easy procedure that simply involves removing the metal filling and in turn adding the composite material. If you are interested in replacing your fillings, then contact our office for a consultation to see if it would be beneficial to your oral health. The two major reasons for replacing metal fillings are below:


  • Cosmetic Reasons for Replacing Metal Fillings. Metal fillings are more of a color contrast in comparison to the natural and almost invisible look for composite materials.
  • Health Reasons for Replacing Metal Fillings. In previous years, metal fillings contained toxic mercury. They also change size and shape depending on the temperature, which can lead to openings that welcome bacteria.


There are many compelling reasons in general for using tooth-colored fillings. Therefore we encourage you to contact our dental office to set up a consultation with our dentist. They can help to answer any further questions you might have regarding treatment.

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