What is the silver filling material commonly used in dentistry called?

The silver filling material commonly used in dentistry is called amalgam. Amalgam is a durable and strong material made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. It is often used for fillings in posterior teeth due to its ability to withstand significant chewing forces. Amalgam has been widely used for many years because of its effectiveness, longevity, and cost-efficiency.

Composite materials, while frequently used for fillings, are typically tooth-colored and blend in with natural teeth, but they do not have the characteristic silver appearance associated with amalgam. Resin is often used as a material for dental bonding and other aesthetic restorations but is not commonly referred to as a silver filling. Glass ionomer is a type of dental material that releases fluoride and is often utilized in areas where less stress is expected, rather than in high-stress chewing surfaces, which is generally the role of amalgam.