Composite vs. Amalgam in 2026: What Egyptian Dentists Actually Use

For decades, amalgam was the default for posterior fillings. In 2026, most Egyptian dentists have shifted toward composite — but the choice still depends on the case. Here is a practical comparison to help you decide what to stock and when to use each.

Strength and durability

Amalgam is extremely durable under heavy occlusal load and forgiving of moisture, which is why some clinicians still favour it for large posterior restorations. Modern nanohybrid composites have closed much of that gap and now perform reliably in most posterior cases when placed with good isolation.

Aesthetics

This is where composite wins decisively. Patients increasingly ask for tooth-coloured restorations, and a well-layered composite is invisible. Amalgam, being metallic, is a hard sell for any visible surface.

Technique sensitivity

Composite demands a dry field, proper bonding, and incremental curing. Amalgam is more tolerant of less-than-perfect isolation. If your case has bleeding or a tricky subgingival margin, that matters.

What to stock

• A reliable nanohybrid composite in shades A1–A3 for everyday work
• A flowable for small cavities and liners
• A quality bonding agent and curing light you trust

The verdict for 2026

For the vast majority of cases, composite is the modern standard — aesthetic, mercury-free, and increasingly durable. Keep amalgam capability only for specific high-load or hard-to-isolate situations. Whatever you choose, buy from a supplier with good expiry dates and proper storage. Compare brands and EGP pricing in new dental materials on AllDent.