Amalgam-Free Dentistry in Midland

A natural alternative to silver fillings

If you have older silver fillings that affect the look of your smile, there’s now a more natural option. 

At Helena Street Dental in Midland, we offer amalgam-free restorations using modern, tooth-coloured materials that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth — restoring both function and appearance.

What are amalgam fillings?

Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, including around 50% mercury. They were once a common and reliable way to restore decayed teeth. 

While strong and long-lasting, amalgam fillings are dark in colour and can stand out against the natural shade of your teeth — which is why many people now choose to replace them with more aesthetic, biocompatible materials.

What are the alternatives to amalgam?

Today’s materials offer strong, durable, and much more natural-looking options for dental restorations. These include:

Composite resin fillings – a tooth-coloured material that bonds directly to your tooth for a seamless appearance.
Porcelain or ceramic restorations – ideal for larger fillings or where extra strength and stain resistance are needed.

Both options are metal-free, safe, and designed to match your natural tooth colour perfectly.

Why choose amalgam-free dentistry?

There are several benefits to choosing tooth-coloured fillings:

A more natural and aesthetic appearance
No visible dark areas in your smile
Strong bonding to the natural tooth structure
Free from mercury and metal materials
Restorations that feel and look just like your natural teeth

Amalgam-free dentistry allows you to restore your teeth without compromising the look of your smile.

How are amalgam fillings removed?

Removing an old amalgam filling is a safe and pain-free process. Before we begin, we’ll discuss your specific case and ensure you feel comfortable with each step. 

Here’s what to expect:

The tooth is numbed with a local anaesthetic for complete comfort.
A rubber dam (a small sheet of rubber) is placed to isolate the tooth and keep the area clean.
The amalgam filling is carefully removed.
The cavity is cleaned and restored with a new, tooth-coloured composite or porcelain material.

The result is a refreshed, natural-looking tooth that restores strength and appearance.

Is it worth replacing old amalgam fillings?

If your amalgam fillings are still strong and functional, there may be no urgent need to replace them. 

However, if you’re concerned about their appearance, or if they’ve started to crack, leak, or irritate the surrounding tooth, replacing them with a modern material can improve both your comfort and the look of your smile.

Your dentist can assess your fillings and discuss whether replacement is the right option for you.