We help you compare white and metal fillings so you can make the best decision for your smile, health, and budget.
What You Need to Know About Tooth Fillings
Tooth fillings are one of the most common dental procedures—but for something so routine, there’s often a surprising amount of confusion around them.
When a dentist says you need a filling, it usually means there’s decay that needs to be removed, or a damaged tooth that requires structural support. What happens next depends on your individual needs, and one of the most common decisions you’ll face is: What type of filling should I get—composite or amalgam?
At Granada Dental in Sherwood Park, we help patients make that decision every day. Our job isn’t just to fix teeth—it’s to make sure you feel informed, confident, and comfortable throughout the entire process.
The Basics: Why a Filling Might Be Needed
Fillings serve one clear purpose: to repair and restore teeth that have been compromised. Whether it’s a cavity, a small chip, or an old filling that’s failing, this procedure can help you:
Stop the spread of decay
Prevent tooth sensitivity
Restore chewing strength
Avoid more complex treatments down the road
Fillings are a frontline solution for maintaining long-term oral health—and when caught early, the process is quick, conservative, and affordable.
Composite vs. Amalgam: What’s the Difference?
Let’s take a closer look at your two main choices.
Composite (White) Fillings
Made from a tooth-colored resin, these fillings blend seamlessly with your natural enamel. They’re a popular choice for patients who want an invisible repair.
Pros:
Matches your natural tooth shade
Bonds directly to the tooth surface
Ideal for front teeth or visible areas
Free of metal and mercury
Considerations:
More technique-sensitive
Slightly higher in cost
May wear slightly faster under heavy chewing pressure
Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
Made from a durable blend of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury, these have been used for decades in dentistry.
Pros:
Very strong and long-lasting
Less expensive than composites
Great for molars and high-bite-pressure areas
Considerations:
Visible when you talk or smile
Contains mercury (in a stable, safe form)
- Not recommended for patients with certain sensitivities
So Which One Should You Choose?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but that’s exactly where Granada Dental comes in. We take a personalized approach that considers:
Where the tooth is located
How much chewing stress it handles
Your long-term aesthetic goals
Any medical conditions or sensitivities
Your insurance coverage and budget
If a front tooth has a small cavity, a white composite filling is likely the way to go. But if you’re repairing a back molar that does the heavy lifting when you eat, a strong silver amalgam may still be the best option.
Our role is to present the pros and cons clearly, explain the lifespan and look of each material, and help you weigh the trade-offs.
What About Safety?
Safety is a common concern—especially with amalgam fillings, which contain mercury. While major health organizations agree that amalgam fillings are stable and safe, we understand that many patients prefer to avoid them.
That’s why we also offer mercury-free composite materials for those seeking biocompatible, metal-free options. If you’re replacing an old silver filling, we follow safe removal protocols to minimize any exposure during the process.
You’ll always know exactly what’s going into your mouth, and why we recommend it.
What Does a Filling Appointment Look Like?
At Granada Dental, the experience is straightforward and stress-free:
Numbing the area with local anesthetic for a pain-free visit
Gently removing any decay or damaged material
Cleaning and shaping the space to prepare for the filling
Carefully placing the material and shaping it to match your bite
Polishing and checking to ensure a comfortable finish
The whole process typically takes less than an hour—and in most cases, you can return to eating and speaking normally that same day.
How Long Will a Filling Last?
Fillings are durable, but not permanent. Their lifespan depends on the material, your oral habits, and the location of the tooth.
General estimates:
Composite: 5 to 10 years
Amalgam: 10 to 15 years or longer
To extend the life of your fillings, we recommend:
Brushing and flossing daily
Avoiding overly hard or sticky foods
Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth
Coming in for regular checkups and cleanings
We’ll keep an eye on your dental work and let you know if anything needs maintenance or replacement.
How Much Will It Cost?
Filling costs in Sherwood Park typically range between:
Composite fillings: $180–$300
Amalgam fillings: $120–$220
The final price depends on the size of the filling, the number of surfaces involved, and which tooth is being treated.
At Granada Dental, we:
Provide transparent cost estimates upfront
Offer direct billing to most insurance providers
Help you understand what’s covered under your plan
Never push for treatments you don’t need
We believe patients deserve clarity, not surprise bills. If you have coverage, we’ll do the legwork to get you the most from your plan.
Fillings for Children: A Calmer Experience for Parents Too
Cavities are common in kids—but early treatment helps protect developing teeth and avoid bigger issues later on. Our team works with children of all ages and creates a gentle, reassuring environment for first-time fillings.
We use child-friendly explanations, patience, and techniques to:
Keep the visit short and smooth
Offer options for white or stainless steel fillings
Answer your questions as a parent
Encourage positive feelings about going to the dentist
Most kids leave with a sticker—and no fear of coming back.
Nervous About Dental Visits? We’re Here to Help
If you’re feeling nervous or even a bit embarrassed about needing a filling, we get it—and we’ve built our practice around making dental care feel safe and respectful.
We offer:
Calming conversations before and during treatment
Sedation options (like nitrous oxide) if needed
A team that listens without judgment
A clean, modern, and friendly environment
We’ve helped many patients overcome long-time anxiety about the dentist, and we’re happy to help you too.
Why Choose Granada Dental for Fillings in Sherwood Park?
We’ve been serving Sherwood Park and surrounding areas for over 30 years—and we know what local families, professionals, and seniors value most:
Clear guidance on treatment options
Direct insurance billing
Convenient appointment times
A gentle, no-pressure experience
Filling materials tailored to your needs
Our patients come from Aspen Trails, Glen Allan, Heritage Hills, and Lakeland Ridge—and they stay because we treat them like people, not just procedures.
Ready to Get That Filling Taken Care Of?
If you’ve been delaying a dental visit or have questions about your options, we’re here to help. Whether it’s your first cavity or time to replace an old filling, Granada Dental makes it comfortable and clear from start to finish.
