There are alternative, natural-looking materials to conventional silver-colored fillings(amalgams) – materials made from porcelain and composite resins, which are colored to match natural tooth enamel. Dentists have learned that metal fillings in your mouth act much like metal does outside the mouth. When exposed to heat and cold, like ice cream or hot coffee, the amalgam fillings expand and contract. This can actually weaken the teeth they were meant to protect, resulting in cracks where harmful bacteria can enter and become trapped, leading to further decay of the teeth. Today's porcelain and composite resins create fillings that not only look natural but also are stronger than materials of the past. Common amalgam alternatives include:

• Composite fillings -- As stated, composite fillings are just what the name implies: a mixture of resins and fine particles designed to mimic the color of natural teeth. Composite fillings are a more attractive restoration that actually strengthens the tooth.
• Ionomers -- Like composite resins, these materials are tooth-colored. Ionomers are made from a combination of various materials, including ground glass and acrylic resins. Ionomers are typically used for fillings near the gum line or tooth root, where biting pressure is not a factor. They are more fragile than dental amalgam, however. A small amount of fluoride is released by these compounds in order to facilitate strengthened enamel in the affected area.
• Porcelain (ceramic) -- This material is usually a combination of porcelain, glass powder and ceramic. Candidates for porcelain fillings are typically crowns, veneers and onlays and inlays. Unlike ionomers, porcelain fillings are more durable but can become fractured if exposed to prolonged biting pressures.