When you need to receive a filling, you are often presented with two options:
1-Amalgam restorations are often known as “silver fillings.” Dental amalgam is a mixture of mercury, silver, tin and copper. Mercury, which makes up about 50% of the compound, binds the metals together to provide a strong, durable filling. When combined with the other metals, the mercury in fillings forms a safe, stable compound. This type of filling has been around since 1895. However due to micromechanical properties of amalgam more tooth structure need to be removed to place amalgam therefore this is not a very conservative approach to small cavities due to loss of tooth structure. also in areas visible in the mouth they are not recommended due to aesthetic concerns.
2-Resin composite restorations are made of a ceramic and plastic compound. Because resin mimics the appearance of natural teeth, these fillings blend right in. They’re also known as “white fillings” or “tooth-colored fillings.” As the material bonds to your tooth, less drilling is required and it preserves maximum amount of tooth structure.
other options would be Ceramic restorations which are the most expensive but extremely durable.