For Pretty Smile

Have you got tooth fillings? Do you know if it is Amalgam or Composite?

I have amalgam fillings on my molars. I was naive then when I went to the dentist and have them done. I was advised that amalgam was nice as they last longer. But what really are the facts? Here are some from Dentistry.about.com:

AMALGAM FILLINGS

Pros:

Because of the metal content, amalgam fillings are very strong and can withstand heavy biting pressure, therefore, used primarily for the back teeth.
Amalgam filling material is relatively inexpensive.
Most insurance companies cover amalgam fillings.
Cons:
Amalgam filling material contains mercury and other metals. While there have been no conclusive studies relating the mercury in amalgam to any dangers, mercury by itself is very toxic.
Some people experience a period of hot and cold sensitivity after having an amalgam filling.
Amalgam fillings do not harden immediately, therefore, it is not good to chew on that specific tooth for a couple of hours after the filling is placed.
More tooth structure is lost because the dentist has to make a bigger preparation.
Not all dentists do amalgam fillings anymore.

COMPOSITE FILLINGS

Pros

The composite filling material contains only acrylic resin and glass particles, no mercury.
The tooth colored filling material looks very nice and natural.
This type of filling material is already hard when you leave the dental office, therefore, you can chew on it whenever you like.
Less tooth structure is lost because the dentist can make a smaller preparation.
Cons

The composite filling material is more expensive.
This type of filling usually takes the dentist a little longer to do.
Composite fillings can stain over a period of time depending factors such as tea, coffee and smoking.
These fillings do not get whiter if you bleach your teeth.
Composite fillings are strong on back teeth, but not as strong as amalgam.
Insurance companies will not always pay for composite fillings on back teeth.

I wonder what the Washington DC dentist advise to their patient/customer?