YOUR GOAL
A less visible restoration
Restorative Dentistry • Balwyn North
Amalgam Replacement
Assessing older fillings and the tooth beneath them.
Older amalgam fillings do not always need to be replaced. We begin by assessing the filling, surrounding tooth structure and your individual dental needs. If replacement is appropriate, tooth-coloured restorative options such as composite resin or porcelain can then be discussed.
Replacement is recommended only where clinically appropriate. Your dentist will assess each tooth and discuss suitable restorative options with you.
YOUR DENTAL ASSESSMENT
Considering an amalgam replacement? We assess the tooth first.
Sometimes our patients just want the black and grey of amalgam gone because tooth-coloured fillings look better. This is achievable for most teeth.
Filling condition
Wear · looseness · broken edges
Possible decay
Changes around or beneath a filling
Cracks or fractures
Damage to the surrounding tooth
Symptoms
Pain or sensitivity needs assessment
Tooth structure
How much healthy tooth remains
Appearance
Your preference for a tooth-coloured option
A sound amalgam filling does not automatically need replacing.
If treatment is appropriate, your dentist will explain the benefits and
risks of removal and whether a filling, onlay or crown best suits the
remaining tooth.
YOUR TREATMENT, AT A GLANCE
Amalgam replacement.
Considering a tooth-coloured alternative to a visible silver filling? Here is what to discuss with your dentist.
APPEARANCE
Shade chosen for your tooth
NEW MATERIAL
Composite or ceramic, if suitable
TREATMENT PLAN
Tailored to the existing filling
PREPARATION
Old filling removed first
APPOINTMENTS
Depends on the option selected
COMFORT
Anaesthetic discussed with you
ONGOING CARE
Review and maintenance may be needed
Replacement for appearance is a personal choice. Removing a sound filling is still dental treatment and may affect the surrounding tooth. Your dentist will assess the tooth and explain the options, limitations and costs before you decide.
BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Planning a change from a silver filling.
These details help us discuss the appearance you want and assess the tooth before any replacement.
01
Tell us what you would like to change. Let us know which filling concerns you and whether you are hoping for a tooth-coloured appearance.
02
Mention any symptoms. Tell us about pain, sensitivity, a chipped tooth or a filling that feels loose. These may affect the treatment plan.
03
Update your medical history. Tell us about changes to your health, medicines and any previous reaction to dental materials or local anaesthetic. Do not stop prescribed medicine without advice from your prescriber.
04
Ask about whitening first. If you plan to whiten your natural teeth, discuss the timing before selecting the shade of a new restoration.
05
Allow time to review your options. A tooth-coloured filling, onlay or crown may be considered depending on the tooth. We will explain the proposed treatment, appointments and costs before you decide.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Amalgam replacement FAQ.
Can I replace a silver filling for cosmetic reasons?
Yes, you can discuss a tooth-coloured alternative with your dentist. They will first examine the filling and surrounding tooth, then explain the likely appearance, benefits and trade-offs of replacing it.
What could replace my amalgam filling?
Depending on the size of the existing filling and how much tooth remains, options may include a composite resin filling or a ceramic restoration such as an onlay or crown. Your dentist will explain which options suit your tooth.
Will the replacement match my natural tooth?
A shade can be selected with your surrounding tooth in mind. The final appearance depends on the tooth, the material and the extent of the restoration, so a perfect or invisible match cannot be guaranteed.
Will any natural tooth be removed?
The existing filling must be removed. Some additional tooth structure may also need to be removed, depending on the condition of the tooth and the restoration selected. Your dentist will discuss the proposed preparation before treatment.
How many appointments will I need?
This depends on the number of teeth and type of restoration. A direct composite filling may be placed in one treatment visit, while an onlay or crown may involve separate preparation and fitting appointments. You will receive an individual plan.
Will the procedure be uncomfortable?
Your dentist can discuss local anaesthetic and other ways to keep you comfortable. Some temporary sensitivity may occur after treatment; contact us if discomfort is severe, worsening or does not settle as expected.
Should I whiten my teeth before replacement?
If whitening is part of your plans, discuss it before selecting the new restoration's shade. Whitening changes natural teeth but does not change the colour of composite or ceramic restorations in the same way.
Does every old amalgam filling need replacing?
No. A sound filling does not automatically need replacement. If you prefer a tooth-coloured appearance, your dentist can help you weigh that preference against the treatment involved in removing an existing restoration.
REAL PATIENT EXAMPLES
Before & after amalgam replacement.
See how tooth-coloured restorations changed the appearance of these patients’ teeth.
01
Tooth-coloured restoration
02
Tooth-coloured restoration
These photographs show individual results. Your dentist will assess the condition of each filling and tooth before discussing whether replacement is suitable. Results vary.
YOUR SMILE, YOUR PLAN
Let's plan the next step together.
We assess your teeth and goals, then plan with you. Options may include tooth-coloured replacement of older fillings, whitening or crowns.
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