Amalgam has been used in dental restorations for over a century and it still has many advantages over other restorative materials. It is very strong and wears more slowly than other restorative materials, except for gold. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), amalgam lasts a long time - often more than 12 years. Amalgam fillings can be placed more quickly than other types. Unlike other materials, amalgam can be placed in areas that are difficult to keep dry during the procedure (e.g., below the gumline).

The techniques for placing amalgam fillings are different from those for composite resin. Composite resin requires a completely dry field for it to adhere to the tooth and sometimes requires the use of ultraviolet light to make it harden. Amalgam is the least expensive restoration material available. For example, other materials cost over four times as much as amalgam.

However, amalgam does have certain drawbacks. The silver color of amalgam does not look like natural tooth enamel. The metals in the amalgam can also corrode or tarnish. In addition, larger amounts of healthy tooth structure may have to be cut away than with other materials to hold the filling in place.

Sometimes, a small gray or blue discoloration can appear on the soft tissues (e.g., inner cheek, gums) near the amalgam restoration. This is called an amalgam tattoo and is caused by the transfer of tiny particles from the restoration to the soft tissues. Amalgam tattoos are harmless and cause no symptoms, although they may be visible on x-rays. They may appear similar to early forms of oral cancer (melanoma), so it is important to bring any discoloration to the attention of a dentist. A dentist can determine if the mark is a harmless amalgam tattoo or a cause for concern.