At tooth, you’ll always be treated with the most modern, safe and aesthetic materials available, which means when it comes to fillings, we only offer white, tooth-coloured fillings. We don’t place amalgam (silver) fillings, and there are several good reasons for this choice.
In this article, I’ll explain what amalgam is, why it’s being phased out or banned in many parts of the world, and why white composite fillings are often the better option for your smile.
What Are Amalgam Fillings?
Amalgam has been used in dentistry for over a century. It’s a silver-coloured material made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, tin and copper. Traditionally this material was popular because it was strong, inexpensive, and relatively easy to place.
However, dental science has moved on. Today we have strong, tooth-coloured composites that can restore teeth beautifully without the dark appearance of silver amalgam.
Why Amalgam Is Being Phased Out or Banned
1. Environmental Concerns (Minamata Convention)
Many countries around the world are reducing or eliminating the use of dental amalgam mainly because of mercury pollution. Mercury, which is a key component of dental amalgam, is a hazardous substance that can enter rivers, soil and the food chain if not properly managed. Obviously in Dentistry in the UK, and most other countries, is highly regulated with clear protocols and legislation regarding the disposal of dangerous and clinical materials.
Over 150 countries have agreed to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, an international treaty aimed at protecting human health and the environment from mercury emissions. As part of this agreement, dental amalgam use is being phased down globally and, in many places, outright banned.
2. European Union Ban from 2025
In the European Union, strict new rules mean that dental amalgam can no longer be used for fillings since January 2025, except in very limited cases where it is deemed strictly necessary for the patient. The manufacture and export of amalgam from the EU will also be prohibited from that date.
Even before this full ban, the EU restricted amalgam use in vulnerable groups, children under 15, pregnant women and nursing mothers, all the way back since 2018, unless it was medically necessary.
3. Other Countries Taking Action
Countries outside the EU are also moving away from amalgam. Colombia has banned the import and manufacture of dental amalgam, and several countries including Russia, Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Ecuador, and others have stopped using it altogether.
These policies aren’t necessarily because amalgam causes harm while in the mouth, most evidence suggests existing amalgam fillings are stable, but because mercury can be released into the environment during disposal, removal or cremation.
Why White (Tooth-Coloured) Fillings Are Better For Most Patients
At tooth, we choose tooth-coloured composite for all the fillings that we do. Here’s why:
1. Aesthetics That Blend With Your Smile
Composite fillings match your natural tooth colour, making them ideal for visible areas of your smile. No more dark or metallic spots, so your fillings look seamless and natural.
2. Bonding and Tooth Preservation
Composite materials bond directly to the enamel and dentine of your tooth. This allows us to remove less healthy tooth structure compared with amalgam, keeping your tooth stronger and more intact.
3. Modern, Safe and Effective
Composite materials today are strong, durable and compatible with modern dental practices. They are free from mercury and chosen for both functional and cosmetic reasons.
4. Comfortable and Conservative
Composite fillings can be placed in a way that is more minimally invasive and comfortable for patients. After placement, we carefully shape and polish them so they feel natural when you bite and chew.
So Why Not Amalgam Fillings?
Here’s the bottom line:
Amalgam is being phased out or banned in many countries due to environmental concerns and international agreements.
It doesn’t match the natural colour of your teeth, which means it can be visually noticeable.
Composite fillings give a strong, aesthetic, mercury-free result that fits with modern dental standards.
That’s why at tooth, we exclusively use white, tooth-coloured fillings, to give you a healthier-looking smile with long-lasting results!
Thinking About Your Options?
If you have old silver fillings that need replacing or you want a better aesthetic look for, or are curious about the best type of filling for your smile, we’re happy to talk through your options.
A consultation with me or our team can help you understand what’s best for your dental health and appearance. And what’s more, our New Patient Exams are only £45! It’s easy to book, just click on one of the buttons below and get in touch to book or ask a question.
See you soon!
Dr. Anna x