If you have ever needed a filling , you may have discussed different materials with your dentist. What are the options, and how do they differ?
This article explains the main types of dental filling materials, their advantages and limitations, and the factors that help guide the choice.
What is a filling, and why does it matter?
Filling materials restore teeth damaged by decay, injury or wear. Selecting a suitable material helps restore function and supports long-term oral health.
Types of filling material
Amalgam: an established material with restricted new use
Amalgam is a metallic filling material used in dentistry for more than a century. In the EU, its general use has been prohibited since 1 January 2025, apart from specific medical needs. Existing sound fillings do not automatically need replacing.
Main characteristics:
- Historically valued for durability; service life varies with the tooth and maintenance.
- Previously a relatively economical option.
- Previously widely used in back teeth.
Limitations:
- Its silver-grey appearance does not match natural teeth.
- Contains mercury; current restrictions aim to reduce mercury use and environmental exposure.
What if you already have one?
A dentist should assess its condition. Replacement is considered for decay, defects or other individual clinical reasons, not simply because amalgam is present.
Composite: a tooth-coloured option
Composite, often called a white filling, is a widely used restorative material.
Main characteristics:
- The shade can be matched closely to the natural tooth.
- It blends discreetly into your smile.
- Adhesive bonding can help preserve healthy tooth structure.
Limitations:
- Durability depends on filling size, bite forces and placement technique.
- It can stain or wear over time.
Who may benefit?
Patients seeking a natural appearance, including suitable front and back teeth.
Glass ionomer: a fluoride-releasing material
Conventional glass ionomer is made from glass powder and polyacid; resin-modified versions also contain resin.
Main characteristics:
- Releases fluoride and can support protection of the surrounding tooth.
- Bonds chemically to tooth structure; moisture control remains important.
- Often used in children's dentistry and selected other situations.
Limitations:
- Usually less resistant to wear than composite or ceramic.
- Its appearance may not match composite.
Who may benefit?
It may be suitable for baby teeth, selected cavities or temporary restorations, depending on clinical needs.
Ceramic: an aesthetic indirect restoration
Ceramic inlays and onlays are made in a laboratory or with a suitable digital workflow and can offer a natural appearance.
Main characteristics:
- Can reproduce tooth colour, translucency and light transmission.
- Can serve for many years with appropriate care; lifespan is individual.
- Generally well tolerated by oral tissues.
Limitations:
- Usually more expensive than a direct filling.
- Preparation, manufacture and bonding involve several stages.
Who may benefit?
Patients needing an indirect restoration who value appearance and long-term function.
Bioceramics and calcium silicates: specialist endodontic materials
These materials are mainly used in root canal treatment, pulp protection and repair procedures.
Main characteristics:
- Some support tissue healing in appropriate clinical situations.
- Good compatibility with surrounding tissues.
- Some have antimicrobial properties associated with their chemistry.
Limitations:
- Material selection and placement require specific clinical expertise.
- They do not replace an aesthetic external tooth restoration.
Who may benefit?
Patients requiring selected root canal procedures, pulp protection or repair of specific defects.
Nanocomposite: a modern composite option
Nanocomposites incorporate very small filler particles to support polishability and mechanical properties. The result also depends on the individual product and clinical technique.
Main characteristics:
- Good aesthetic potential.
- Designed to resist wear.
- Can maintain a smooth, polished appearance with suitable care.
Limitations:
- Costs vary by product and treatment.
- Suitability depends on the tooth and restoration, rather than the material name alone.
Who may benefit?
Patients for whom a modern composite restoration is clinically appropriate.
How should you choose?
The best material depends on the individual situation. Several factors matter:
Consideration | Possible material |
Back tooth | Composite or ceramic, according to the size of the defect |
Visible front tooth | Composite, ceramic or nanocomposite |
Patient's age | Glass ionomer may be appropriate for selected restorations in children |
Root canal treatment | Specific bioceramic or calcium-silicate materials for endodontic purposes; a separate final restoration is still needed |
Budget | Direct composite is often less costly than an indirect ceramic restoration |
Aesthetic requirements | Composite, ceramic or nanocomposite |
Dentists can choose from a wide range of restorative materials. The appropriate option depends on the remaining tooth, the bite, oral hygiene and current clinical requirements.
Discuss the options with your dentist, who can explain the benefits and limitations for your particular tooth.
Would you like to find out which material may suit your needs? Book an appointment at our clinic and we will help you choose an appropriate solution.
For more practical detail on this topic, see preventing decay between teeth and when a root-treated tooth needs a crown .