If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What are the types of tooth filling?” — you’re not alone. Millions of patients each year need restorative dental work, and understanding your options is the first step toward making an informed, confident decision. At Thomas Dental Centre, we believe knowledge empowers better smiles — and that’s why we’ve created this comprehensive, easy-to-understand guide just for you.

Whether you’re dealing with a small cavity, a chipped tooth, or post-root canal restoration, knowing what are the types of tooth filling helps you choose the material that best fits your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic goals. Let’s dive in — no dental jargon, no fluff. Just real talk from your trusted team in Dubai, where patient care comes before profit.

Why Do You Need a Tooth Filling?

Before we break down what are the types of tooth filling, let’s quickly cover why fillings exist. Tooth decay, trauma, or wear can create holes (cavities) in your enamel. Left untreated, these can lead to infection, pain, or even tooth loss. A tooth filling seals the damage, restores function, and prevents further decay.

At Thomas Dental Centre, we see patients daily who come in thinking they “just have a little sensitivity” — only to discover they need a dental restoration. Early intervention saves time, money, and discomfort. That’s why we always recommend regular routine dental checkups — seriously, don’t skip them!

Pro Tip: Book your next cleaning and exam with us here — early detection means simpler, cheaper fixes.

Let’s answer the big question: What are the types of tooth filling? Here’s a breakdown of the six most widely used materials — including their pros, cons, costs, and ideal use cases.

1. Amalgam Fillings (Silver Fillings)

Amalgam fillings are the old-school, durable option made from a blend of metals — silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Yes, mercury. But don’t panic — the American Dental Association and WHO confirm it’s safe once set.

✅ Pros:

● Extremely durable (lasts 10–15 years or more)

● Cost-effective (typically $50–$150 per filling)

● Best for molars and high-pressure chewing zones

❌ Cons:

● Metallic appearance — not aesthetically pleasing

● Requires more tooth removal for placement

● Not recommended for front teeth

Real Talk from Our Clinic: We still use amalgam for back teeth in active kids or cost-conscious adults. It’s tough as nails — perfect for heavy chewers.

This is the Hollywood favorite. Composite resin mimics natural tooth color and bonds directly to your enamel. If you want invisible repairs, this is your go-to.

✅ Pros:

● Blends seamlessly with your smile

● Bonds chemically to tooth structure — less drilling needed

● Mercury-free and biocompatible

❌ Cons:

● Less durable than amalgam (lasts 5–7 years on average)

● Slightly higher cost ($90–$250 per filling)

● Can stain over time with coffee, tea, or red wine

✨ Our Experience: At Thomas Dental Centre, over 70% of our adult patients choose composite resin — especially for visible front teeth. Pair it with our Hollywood Smile Design service for a flawless finish.

Often used for kids or below-the-gumline repairs, glass ionomer releases fluoride to help prevent further decay. It’s not super strong, but it’s therapeutic.

✅ Pros:

● Releases fluoride for kids and adults prone to decay

● Bonds well to enamel and dentin

● Ideal for baby teeth or non-biting surfaces

❌ Cons:

● Fragile — not suitable for chewing surfaces

● Shorter lifespan (around 5 years)

● Less aesthetic than composite

Yes, gold. Still around — and surprisingly popular among our high-end clients in Dubai. Crafted in a lab and cemented in place, gold fillings are the luxury sports car of dental restorations.

✅ Pros:

● Lasts 15–30 years (!)

● Super biocompatible — rarely causes allergies

● Wear-resistant and gentle on opposing teeth

❌ Cons:

● Expensive ($250–$4,500 depending on size and purity)

● Requires two visits

● Obvious metallic look — though some find it stylish

Fun Fact: We had a client last year who requested 18k gold fillings “to match his watch.” Hey — if it makes you smile, we support it.

Also called inlays or onlays, ceramic fillings are custom-made in a lab for precision fit and beauty. Think of them as crowns’ minimalist cousins.

✅ Pros:

● Stunningly natural appearance

● Highly stain-resistant

● Durable (15+ years with care)

❌ Cons:

● More expensive than composite ($300–$1,500)

● Requires two appointments

● Brittle — can crack under extreme pressure

Design Insight: Combine ceramic fillings with our veneers or aesthetic gum correction services for a complete smile makeover. Perfectionists, rejoice.

Why Choose Thomas Dental Centre for Your Dental Filling?