Amalgam Vs Vs Composite Fillings

The basic difference between amalgam and composite fillings is the color, composition and method of manufacture. Namely, amalgam fillings contain metals of mercury, lead, silver and copper, which can be detrimental to the health of the patient, while composite fillings, composite resins, which do not contain metals, are therefore healthier and more environmentally friendly.

Amalgam restorations attach to the tooth only mechanically, which eventually leads to marginal cracks between the teeth and the restorations, and the occurrence of secondary caries is greater and consequently tooth decay.
Composite fillings are chemically bonded to the tooth itself, and because of its more flexible composition, allows longer life and improves tooth strength.

The important point is that when a composite tooth is inserted, healthy tissue is minimally removed, while a larger tooth surface is damaged when inserting amalgam fillings.
For patients, however, the most important difference is color. The amalgam fill is black in color and the aesthetics of the tooth are disturbed, while the composite filler is white in color and completely blends in with the natural color of the tooth.