debvh - 4:49 pm on Apr 20, 2007 (gmt 0)

Caveat: I am not a dentist. However, I am married to one so I've heard a thing or 2 over the years.

1. Your dentist should be able to run down the pros and cons of the various materials (just don't listen to anyone who says not to brush daily! Eeew!). Another good source for info is the American Dental Association.
2. Amalgam is a good material for chewing surfaces on back teeth.
3. Just because you get a filling doesn't mean you will lose the tooth. The filling will eventually need to be replaced to be sure that you don't get decay underneath it.
4. Brush and floss daily and get regular cleanings.