Depending on the situation and the wishes of the patient either a white (composite resin) or silver (amalgam) filling can be placed.
Composite resins
Composite resins, or tooth-colored fillings, are a mixture of glass or quartz filler that provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small- to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from chewing. They can be used on either front or back teeth.
Dental amalgam
Dental amalgam, sometimes described as “silver-colored” fillings, is made from a combination of metals that include mercury, silver, tin, and copper. Dental amalgam has been used for generations by dentists. Amalgam is very durable and more affordable than tooth-colored fillings; however tooth-colored materials are more natural looking.