Replacing Old Silver Fillings: Replace a silver filling when there is a reason, not just because it is old
We look at each filling, show you what we see and explain your options.
- Checked under magnification
- Tooth-coloured options
- Estimate first
Quick answer
Should I replace my old silver fillings?
Not just because they are old. Health Canada and the Canadian Dental Association advise against removing silver (amalgam) fillings that are sound and working. Replacement makes sense when a filling is cracked, leaking, has decay under it or has broken. Then we discuss tooth-coloured options such as a composite filling, Bioclear, an onlay or a crown.
Worth a check
Signs a filling may need attention
- A crack in the filling or the tooth around it
- Dark edges or decay under the filling
- New sensitivity, or pain when biting
Options
Keep it, or replace it
| Keep the filling | Replace the filling | |
|---|---|---|
| When it makes sense | The filling is intact, sealed and comfortable | The filling is cracked, leaking, has decay under it or has broken |
| What happens | We check it at your regular exams | The old filling is removed and the tooth is rebuilt |
| Materials | No change | Composite, Bioclear, an onlay or a crown, depending on how much tooth remains |
We explain what we see and you decide. Dr. Rafael Bustamante is a general dentist. Bioclear certification is a certificate of achievement, not a specialty.
Tooth-coloured options
What can replace a silver filling
Tooth coloured filling
A cavity with plenty of strong tooth left.
Learn more about Tooth coloured fillingBioclear
Rebuilding a tooth with warmed composite in clear forms.
Learn more about BioclearOnlay or crown
A cracked tooth or a very large filling.
Learn more about Onlay or crown
How it works
How a replacement visit works
- Step 1
Check
An exam under magnification, with x-rays when needed.
- Step 2
Plan
Your options and an estimate before treatment.
- Step 3
Remove with care
A rubber dam and high-volume suction, following the SMART protocol.
- Step 4
Rebuild
Tooth-coloured material, then a bite check.
FAQ
Quick answers
Are silver fillings safe?
Health Canada reviewed the evidence in 2020 and found no clear link between mercury in dental amalgam and negative health effects. As a precaution, it advises limiting amalgam use in children, pregnant women and people with kidney disease.
How do I know if a silver filling needs replacing?
Cracks, dark edges, decay under the filling, a broken piece or new sensitivity are reasons to check. We look closely and show you what we see.
What is the SMART protocol?
SMART stands for Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique, a protocol from the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. It uses a rubber dam, high-volume suction and air filtration to reduce exposure during removal.
Do you offer SMART amalgam removal?
Yes. When a silver filling needs to come out, we offer removal following the SMART protocol.
Can I have a silver filling replaced while pregnant?
Health Canada advises that, whenever possible, amalgam fillings not be placed in or removed from the teeth of pregnant women. Tell us if you are pregnant and we will plan around it.
What replaces a silver filling?
Usually a tooth-coloured composite filling or Bioclear restoration. If a lot of tooth is missing or cracked, an onlay or crown may protect it better.
Will insurance cover replacing a silver filling?
It depends on your plan and the reason for replacement. We can send a predetermination to your insurer before treatment.
Not sure about an old filling?
Book an exam. We check it closely and explain your options before anything is done.