For most people today, tooth-coloured fillings are the better everyday choice: they match your natural teeth, bond directly to the tooth, and usually need less healthy tooth removed. Silver fillings still have strengths, especially durability in large back-tooth cavities, but they are visible and work differently. At Pearl Roots Dental Clinic in Ngong, we offer tooth-coloured fillings, and this guide gives you a fair, side-by-side comparison so you understand the trade-offs.
What each type of filling is made of
Tooth-coloured (composite) fillings
Composite fillings are made from a resin mixed with fine glass or ceramic particles. The dentist chooses a shade that matches your tooth, places the material in thin layers and hardens each layer with a special light. Because the material bonds to the tooth, it helps seal the edges and support the remaining tooth structure.
Silver (amalgam) fillings
Amalgam is a metal alloy that has been used in dentistry for well over a century. It is packed into the cavity and hardens on its own. It does not bond to the tooth, so the dentist usually shapes the cavity with undercuts that lock the filling in place. Many adults in Kenya have one or two from years ago.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Tooth-coloured fillings | Silver fillings |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Blends in with natural teeth | Clearly visible silver-grey |
| How it holds | Bonds to the tooth | Held mechanically by the cavity shape |
| Healthy tooth removed | Usually less | Often more, to create retention |
| Best suited to | Front and back teeth, small to medium cavities | Large cavities in back teeth |
| Durability | Long-lasting with good care; can wear or stain over time | Typically very durable under heavy chewing |
| Temperature sensitivity | Low heat conduction | Metal can conduct hot and cold |
| Placement | Needs a dry field and more chair time | Quicker and more forgiving to place |
| Repairs | Small chips can often be repaired | Usually replaced rather than patched |
Neither is perfect for every situation. The right choice depends on where the tooth is, how big the cavity is and how you bite.
Why many patients prefer tooth-coloured fillings
They look natural
This is the most obvious benefit. If you laugh, speak in a meeting or take photos at a wedding, a well-matched composite filling is very hard to spot. For front teeth, it is the clear choice.
They help conserve your tooth
Because composite bonds to enamel and dentine, the dentist can usually remove just the decay instead of reshaping the tooth to hold a filling. Keeping more natural tooth is generally better for its long-term strength.
They can be repaired and adjusted
Composite can often be topped up or polished if a small edge chips, which can save you from replacing the whole filling.
A filling is only as good as the habits around it. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth and cutting back on sugary drinks will protect any filling far longer.
Where silver fillings still have an edge
To be fair to amalgam, it has earned its long history:
- It tolerates moisture during placement, which can matter in hard-to-reach back teeth.
- It typically stands up well to heavy chewing forces in large cavities.
- It is quick to place.
Some patients also ask about the mercury in amalgam. Mainstream dental organisations consider existing silver fillings that are intact and problem-free safe to leave in place, so there is usually no need to remove a healthy one just because it is silver. If one is cracked, leaking or has decay around it, that is a different conversation.
Replacing old silver fillings
If you have old silver fillings and would like a more natural look, or one is breaking down, we can examine it and tell you honestly whether replacement makes sense. In many cases a worn or cracked amalgam can be replaced with a tooth-coloured filling. If a tooth has lost a lot of structure, a crown may protect it better than any filling. Our guide to dental crown costs in Nairobi explains when a crown is the smarter option.
What affects the cost of a filling
We do not quote prices online because every tooth is different, but these are the main factors:
- Size and depth of the cavity: a small filling is simpler than one covering several surfaces.
- Which tooth: back teeth and teeth that are hard to reach can take more time.
- Number of teeth: treating several at once may change how appointments are planned.
- Condition of the tooth: cracks or very deep decay may need a different treatment.
The cheapest option is not always the best value. A carefully placed filling that seals well can last years, while a rushed one may leak and need redoing, costing more over time. At your free consultation we examine your teeth and give you a clear quote before any treatment starts. It is part of how we deliver premium care that remains affordable.
How to make your fillings last
- Brush twice daily and clean between teeth.
- Avoid chewing ice, pens or bottle tops.
- If you grind your teeth at night, ask us about protection.
- Keep up regular check-ups so small problems are caught early; see how often you should have a dental check-up.
You can learn more about fillings, crowns and bridges on our restorative care page.
Frequently asked questions
Do tooth-coloured fillings last as long as silver ones?
Silver fillings are typically very durable, especially in large back-tooth cavities. Modern composites are also long-lasting with good care and regular check-ups. How long any filling lasts depends a lot on its size, your bite and your habits.
Does getting a filling hurt?
Local anaesthetic numbs the tooth, so most patients feel pressure or vibration rather than pain. Your lip may feel numb for a few hours afterwards.
Can I eat straight after a tooth-coloured filling?
Composite is hardened with a light before you leave the chair, so it is set. It is wise to wait until the numbness wears off so you do not bite your cheek or tongue.
Should I replace all my old silver fillings?
Not necessarily. Intact silver fillings with no problems can usually stay. We will check each one and tell you honestly which, if any, need attention.