If you grew up in the ‘80s or ‘90s, chances are your childhood dentist filled cavities with silver-colored amalgam fillings. While these were the standard at the time, silver fillings can darken teeth over the years, casting a dull shadow when you smile. The good news? You don’t have to live with these fillings. Today’s dental advancements make it easy to swap out old fillings for a more natural, seamless look.
Featured Experts
- Dr. Lana Rozenberg is a cosmetic dentist in New York
- Dr. Kevin Sands is a cosmetic dentist in Beverly Hills, CA
- Dr. Victoria Veytsman is a cosmetic dentist in New York
Why do metal fillings make teeth look dark?
Silver fillings may have done the job back in the day, but these don’t age well. Amalgam fillings contain a mix of mercury, silver, tin and copper, which can oxidize and stain the surrounding tooth structure over time. New York cosmetic dentist Lana Rosenberg, DDS says that if the fillings start greying the tooth itself, it can compromise the enamel, making it weaker and prone to fractures.
Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist Kevin Sands, DDS agrees, adding that old fillings only become more noticeable as natural enamel wears down. “Unlike tooth-colored materials, silver fillings don’t blend in, so any discoloration stands out even more as you age,” he says.
How to Replace Old Metal Fillings
If you’re ready to ditch those outdated silver spots, you’ve got options. Dr. Rosenberg says composite resin fillings are one of the most popular choices because of the color-matching that blends with your natural teeth. Composite resin fillings are an especially great fix for front teeth where aesthetics matter most.
For a longer-lasting option, New York cosmetic dentist Victoria Veytsman, DDS recommends porcelain inlays or onlays. “They’re more durable than composite fillings and can withstand the forces of chewing,” she says. “They’re ideal for back teeth where you need more strength.”
For anyone looking for a total upgrade, Dr. Sands says veneers can be a game changer. “Veneers can cover the entire front surface of the teeth, not just where a filling is, making them perfect for patients who want to improve both color and shape,” he says. Crowns work similarly but offer even more support for teeth that have been weakened by large fillings or damage over time.
Is it safe to remove metal fillings?
One concern many patients have about replacing old fillings is whether the removal process is safe—especially since amalgam fillings contain mercury. Experts say not to worry.
“The removal of amalgam fillings is a safe procedure when proper precautions are taken,” Dr. Sands says. “We use high-volume suction, rubber dams and external air supply to minimize exposure. When done by a dentist you trust, it’s a simple and easy procedure.”
Dr. Rosenberg explains that modern dental offices follow strict safety protocols. “High-volume evacuators capture mercury vapors, while rubber dams keep particles from being ingested or inhaled,” she says. Dr. Veytsman adds that water spraying while drilling further reduces any potential risk, ensuring that the process is both safe and effective.
How to Brighten Your Smile After Replacing
Once you’ve swapped out your old fillings, you can take things a step further by whitening your teeth. Dr. Rosenberg recommends starting with an at-home treatment like teeth whitening strips for an affordable option, while in-office whitening will give you more instant, dramatic results.
If you want to maintain a brighter smile long-term, Dr. Sands says it comes down to a combination of good oral hygiene and smart habits. “Use fluoride toothpaste, floss daily and be mindful of foods and drinks that stain, like coffee, red wine and tomato-based sauces,” he says.
Even if you’re not quite ready to replace all your metal fillings, taking care of the rest of your teeth can still make a major difference. Dr. Veytsman suggests consulting with a cosmetic dentist to come up with a game plan that aligns with your goals. “Your smile should work for you—not against you,” she says.
If you’ve been debating whether to swap out old fillings, now might be the time. Dr. Rosenberg says advancements in materials and techniques make today’s dental restorations safer and more aesthetic than ever. “Whether you’re replacing old fillings or considering new ones, modern dental materials offer options that look beautiful and feel great,” she says.
Translation: You don’t have to settle for outdated dental work. If your smile is stuck in the ‘90s, consider an upgrade.