Traditional silver-coloured fillings to prolongs the life of your teeth

Whilst composite (tooth coloured) fillings are becoming more popular, amalgam fillings still have a place in modern dentistry.

Dental amalgam is the traditional silver-coloured filling we are all familiar with. With a long history of proven effectiveness, these types of fillings offer robust, durable performance and bring good support to the remaining structure of your teeth.

Some patients will be aware that there is mercury in dental amalgam, and may be concerned that this could be harmful. Rest assured that here at St Peter’s Lodge the general health of our patients is our absolute prime concern, and we would never carry out any treatment which did not inspire our full confidence.

In fact, once mercury is combined with the other materials in the amalgam filling, the chemical nature is changed, rendering it harmless. Research into the safety of dental amalgam has been carried out for over a century and to date, no trustworthy controlled studies have found a connection between amalgam fillings and any medical problem.

A straightforward treatment carried out with uncommon care and attention

Most of us have fillings and know that this is one of the more straightforward treatments which dentists carry out. Nevertheless, it’s one which we carry out with just the same commitment and dedication as the most technically challenging procedure.

Pain-free dentistry is one of our highest priorities, and you can trust us to make sure you’re entirely comfortable, pain-free and at your ease when you come to use for a filling, just like any other treatment we conduct here at our St Albans surgery.

To find out more and book an appointment please call us on 01727 853160 or complete our online booking form.

Why Choose St Peter’s Lodge for Silver Fillings in St Albans?

Not every patient wants or needs a tooth-coloured restoration. Silver amalgam fillings remain one of the most time-tested and reliable options in dentistry, and at St Peter’s Lodge we continue to offer them with the same level of care and precision we bring to every treatment.

Proven, Long-Lasting Durability Dental amalgam has been used in dentistry for over 150 years for a very good reason it works. Silver fillings are exceptionally strong, making them a particularly reliable choice for back teeth and load-bearing areas where chewing forces are greatest. When placed correctly, an amalgam filling in St Albans can last well over a decade.

Safe, Clinically Proven Restorations Some patients have concerns about the mercury content in dental amalgam. Rest assured once mercury is combined with the other metals in the alloy, its chemical properties change entirely, making it safe for use in dental restorations. Over a century of research has found no credible connection between amalgam fillings and any medical condition.

Cosmetic and Restorative Fillings Both Available We understand that different patients have different priorities. For those who want a filling that simply does its job reliably and cost-effectively, silver amalgam is an excellent choice. For patients with cosmetic concerns, we also offer white tooth-coloured fillings as an alternative. Our team will always help you choose the right type of restoration for your individual needs.

Pain-Free Treatment as Standard Whether you are coming in for a silver filling, an amalgam filling replacement, or any other tooth restoration in St Albans, pain-free dentistry is our highest priority. We will ensure you are fully comfortable before we begin and throughout your entire appointment.

Straightforward Treatment, Exceptional Care Placing a silver filling is one of the most routine procedures in dentistry but at St Peter’s Lodge, we approach every treatment with the same dedication regardless of complexity. You will always leave knowing your tooth restoration has been carried out to the very highest standard.

Book Your Silver Filling Appointment in St Albans Today

Whether you need a new silver amalgam filling, want to discuss your options for cosmetic restorative fillings in St Albans, or are simply looking for a trusted dental practice in Hertfordshire for reliable tooth restorations, our experienced team at St Peter’s Lodge is here to help. We offer pain-free, patient-focused care in a warm and welcoming environment with appointments available Monday through Saturday.

Call us on 01727 853160, email info@stpeterslodgedentalpractice.co.uk, or book online today.

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Frequently asked questions:

What exactly are silver fillings made of?
Silver fillings, known as dental amalgam, are a traditional filling material. They are a robust alloy made by combining mercury with other metals, primarily silver, tin, and copper.

Why do you still use dental amalgam when white fillings are available?
Dental amalgam still has a place in modern dentistry because it offers a long history of proven effectiveness. These fillings are known for their robust, durable performance and provide excellent support to the remaining structure of your teeth, making them a reliable choice for certain situations.

I've heard silver fillings contain mercury. Is this safe?

Yes, it is safe. We understand the concern, but once mercury is combined with the other materials in the amalgam filling, its chemical nature is changed, rendering it harmless. Extensive, trustworthy research over a century has found no connection between amalgam fillings and any medical problem. The safety of our patients is our absolute prime concern.

Are silver fillings durable enough for back teeth?
Yes. Dental amalgam is particularly known for its durability and strength. Its robust nature makes it an excellent choice for load-bearing areas like the back teeth, where chewing forces are greatest.

Can I expect a filling procedure to be comfortable and pain-free?
Absolutely. Pain-free dentistry is one of our highest priorities at St Peter’s Lodge. You can trust us to ensure you are entirely comfortable, pain-free, and at your ease when you come to us for a filling, just like any other treatment we conduct.

How does the practice view the procedure for placing silver fillings?
Although placing a filling is one of the more straightforward treatments in dentistry, we carry it out with the same commitment and dedication as the most technically challenging procedure. We ensure a high level of care and attention during every treatment.

What is the difference between silver fillings and dental amalgam fillings?
They are the same thing. “Silver fillings”, “amalgam fillings”, and “dental amalgam” all refer to the same type of restoration a durable metal alloy made primarily from silver, tin, copper, and mercury. The term “silver” simply refers to the colour of the finished filling. At St Peter’s Lodge, our silver amalgam fillings in St Albans are placed with the same precision and care as any other restoration.

Can I have cosmetic restorative fillings in St Albans instead of silver ones?
Absolutely. If you would prefer a more discreet option, we offer tooth-coloured composite fillings as an alternative to silver amalgam. Many patients choose composite restorations for visible teeth, while opting for amalgam on back teeth where strength matters most. Our team will advise you on the best approach based on the location, size, and condition of the tooth being treated.

How long do silver amalgam fillings last, and when do they need replacing?
Silver amalgam fillings are among the most durable restorations available. With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, they can last well over ten years and often much longer. Over time, fillings can wear, crack, or allow decay to develop at the margins. Our team at St Peter’s Lodge will monitor your fillings at every check-up and advise you when replacement becomes necessary.