Composite vs. Amalgam Fillings

March 20, 2023

In reality both composite and amalgam fillings serve an important role in modern dentistry.

Did you know that about 90 percent of Americans have at least one filling?  When a tooth develops a point of decay, this is actually a diseased area of the tooth material. The standard dental treatment for a cavity is to use a tiny drill to remove the diseased tissue and then install a filling to protect and seal the area. A dental filling can be either amalgam or composite resin. A composite filling is made of resinous polymers that can be tinted to be the same color as the tooth. Amalgam fillings are a mixture of powdered alloys and metals. Both composite and amalgam fillings have either advantages, and one type of filling may be recommended over the other in some cases. Let's take a closer look at the benefits and use cases for each type of filling. 


Why Amalgam Fillings May Be Recommended 

Amalgam fillings are often recommended for teeth that are primarily responsible for chewing. Therefore, these metal fillings may be used in back jaw teeth that are not immediately visible when you smile. Amalgam fillings do have a gray color, which is not ideal in the front teeth, but the denser material is more durable, which makes it a good fit for teeth that sustain a lot of wear. 


The Pros and Cons of Amalgam Fillings 

  • Pro: Amalgam fillings can last up to 15 years 
  • Con: Amalgam fillings are not the same color as the tooth 
  • Pro: Amalgam fillings can be more cost-effective 
  • Con: Amalgam fillings are not suitable for patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain conditions 


Why Composite Fillings May Be Recommended 

Composite fillings are most often used on teeth that are visible when you smile. The material can be tinted, so the filling exactly matches the hue of the natural teeth. Composite fillings are most often used for cavities, but may also be used for correcting gaps or changing the outward appearance of a tooth. 


The Pros and Cons of Composite Fillings 

  • Pro: Composite fillings match your natural teeth 
  • Con: Composite fillings have a shorter life span of about 7 years 
  • Pro: Composite fillings can be used to fill gaps or change a tooth's cosmetic appearance 
  • Con: Composite fillings can be more costly 


Discuss Fillings with the Dentist to Find the Best Solution for You 

In reality, both composite and amalgam fillings serve an important role in modern dentistry. Do you have teeth you suspect need fillings? Reach out to schedule an appointment to discuss your treatment options today.


November 12, 2025
A bright, confident smile can transform the way you feel about yourself—and how others see you. If you’re searching for a cosmetic dentist in Spring, TX, you’ve likely come across two of the most popular treatments for enhancing your smile: veneers and teeth whitening . Both options can improve the look of your teeth, but they work in different ways and deliver different results. So— which treatment is right for you? What Is Teeth Whitening? Teeth whitening is a noninvasive cosmetic treatment designed to lighten natural tooth color by removing surface stains. Whether stains come from coffee, wine, smoking, or aging, whitening can help restore brightness. Benefits of Teeth Whitening Fast results Non-invasive More affordable than veneers Great option before special events Performed safely by a cosmetic dentist When Teeth Whitening May Not Be Enough While whitening helps remove stains, it cannot correct: Deep internal discoloration Chipped or cracked teeth Crooked or uneven teeth Dark spots from trauma or medication If these issues apply to you, veneers may be a better option. Best for: Patients with healthy teeth who want a noticeable brightness boost. Considering Whitening in Spring, TX? Professional whitening at Rayford Dental on Rayford Road provides brighter, more even results than drugstore products. Our team customizes your whitening plan for safe, lasting results. What Are Veneers? Veneers are ultra-thin porcelain shells bonded to the front of your teeth to improve their shape, shade, and overall appearance. This cosmetic treatment offers a complete smile transformation—fast. Benefits of Veneers Instantly whiter, more symmetrical smile Can correct chips, cracks, gaps, and uneven teeth Long-lasting (10–15 years) Stain-resistant Natural-looking results Things to Consider About Veneers Higher investment than whitening Irreversible process Requires two visits Best for: Patients seeking long-term cosmetic results beyond whitening. Veneers vs. Teeth Whitening: Key Differences While both veneers and teeth whitening can improve your smile, they do so in different ways. Teeth whitening focuses on brightening your natural teeth. It works best for people with stains caused by foods, drinks, tobacco, or aging. The results are noticeable but not permanent, lasting months to a few years depending on lifestyle habits. Whitening is non-invasive, budget-friendly, and a great first step for mild to moderate discoloration. On the other hand, veneers provide a more complete cosmetic transformation. They are thin porcelain shells placed on the front of the teeth to improve color, shape, size, and alignment. Veneers can correct issues that whitening cannot, including chips, cracks, gaps, and deep internal stains. They typically last 10–15+ years and resist discoloration, but they require a greater investment and minimal enamel reduction. In short: Choose teeth whitening if you want a quick brightness boost and your teeth are otherwise healthy. Choose veneers if you want a long-lasting, dramatic transformation that addresses cosmetic concerns beyond color. Which Option Is Best for You? Choose Teeth Whitening if: Your teeth are healthy You only want a brighter smile You want a lower-cost cosmetic treatment You prefer a non-invasive option Whitening may not be ideal if: You have deep discoloration or structural damage Choose Veneers if: You want long-term cosmetic enhancement You have chips, gaps, or uneven teeth You want a dramatic transformation You want permanent white teeth that resist stains Veneers offer stronger cosmetic benefits for those seeking a Hollywood-style smile. What Do Patients Choose Most in Spring, TX? At Rayford Dental , many patients begin with whitening but choose veneers if they desire: A more uniform smile Better symmetry A dramatic, lasting change Both treatments can deliver excellent results—but they serve different goals. The best way to decide is through a personalized consultation with our experienced cosmetic dental team. Why Choose Rayford Dental for Cosmetic Dentistry in Spring, TX? If you’re researching veneers in Spring, TX or teeth whitening near Rayford Road , choosing the right dentist is essential. At Rayford Dental , we offer: ✔ Personalized smile evaluations ✔ Advanced cosmetic techniques ✔ Transparent pricing and financing guidance ✔ Natural-looking results designed for your face and features ✔ Gentle, comfortable care We don’t just improve your smile, we help you feel more confident every day. Ready for a Brighter Smile? Whether you're leaning toward veneers or whitening, our team will help you choose what best fits your goals, budget, and lifestyle. ➡️ Schedule your smile consultation today When it comes to enhancing your smile, both veneers and teeth whitening are powerful options. Whitening is ideal for quick, affordable improvements, while veneers offer long-lasting, comprehensive cosmetic results. If you’re unsure, we can help you explore each option with a customized treatment plan tailored to your smile goals. Ready to love your smile again? Book your cosmetic consultation today at Rayford Dental in Spring, TX
dental tooth extraction
October 15, 2025
Experiencing tooth pain or damage? Get expert tooth extraction care at Rayford Dental in Spring, TX. Book your appointment today.