Composite fillings
Composite fillings

All dental fillings serve a couple basic purposes:

  • To restore the structure, function and comfort of a tooth that has been damaged by injury or decay.
  • To protect that tooth from further injury or decay. 

Dental fillings are a tooth restoration option that works well when the damage caused by injury or decay is relatively minor. (For instances where damage is more significant, other restoration procedures, such as inlays, onlays, or crowns, are recommended.)

The advantages of certain types of dental fillings are most observable when those fillings are used to address specific situations. In the same way a band-aid can help prevent infection in a small scrape but would do little to resolve a broken bone. A filling may be appropriate in some situations but can do little to resolve a weakened structure or function. It is, therefore, useful to understand the different types of dental fillings, along with their strengths and weaknesses.

Did you know that composite fillings can be more resistant to tooth decay than amalgam fillings?

Composite fillings are more resistant to tooth decay than amalgam fillings, according to studies.

Amalgam is a metal alloy made up of silver and copper. Plastic materials are used to make composite fillings. When either material is utilized in dentistry, it’s critical that the dentist has the right equipment to do a good job. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the best type of filling for your situation.

Todays Dental - Composite Fillings
Todays Dental – Composite Fillings

Ready to book your composite fillings appointment at Todays Dental?

About Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are made of ceramic and plastic. They may be an appropriate option if you have minor issues with:

Being the most common, composite fillings have a lot of benefits. They can be made to match the color of the individual’s natural tooth, making them essentially undetectable in the mouth. They are durable even when subjected to the constant stress and bite forces of chewing. This makes composite fillings a workable option for either front or back teeth. On visible surfaces as well as hidden surfaces. However, there are some potential drawbacks that have to be considered as well.

Potential Drawbacks-

Composite fillings are not quite as durable as amalgam (silver) fillings. This means that they are better used for small to medium-sized fillings and they may need to be replaced more frequently than amalgam fillings. It takes longer to place a composite filling than an amalgam filling. The former needs a completely clean and dry tooth throughout the entire process in order to set properly. Composite fillings are also more expensive than amalgam fillings.

As is the case with other types of fillings, your dentist will remove any decayed or damaged tooth and clean it thoroughly prior to placing the filling. Because removing decay or damage can be uncomfortable or even painful, your dentist will likely recommend the use of a local anesthetic to numb the tooth. They will then place the filling, shaping and polishing it so as to restore the normal, optimal structure and function of your tooth.

You should be able to speak and eat normally with a composite filling, though it is not unusual to have some sensitivity to hot and cold foods immediately after the procedure. Given a little time, the filling will acclimate and you should not experience any further discomfort.

The Bottom Line

Once again, the end goal of any filling is to help restore a tooth’s structure, function and comfort, and reduce or even eliminate the chance of further decay or infection. A composite filling can be appealing because of its aesthetic benefits and its durability, but your dentist will want to be absolutely sure that this is the absolute best tooth restoration option for your needs.

Todays Dental - Composite Fillings
Todays Dental – Composite Fillings

What is the cost of Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings may be the correct choice for you if you’re seeking for a cost-effective way to replace your broken, damaged, or rotting teeth. Composite fillings, popularly known as “white fillings,” are tooth-colored restorations made of a resin combined with glass particles.

What material is used in Composite Fillings?

People have a common misunderstanding that composite fillings are made of plastic. This is completely untrue! A composite filling is made of the same substance that is used to bond dentures and has been around since the 1970s.

Are composite fillings strong?

Have you ever wondered what goes into your tooth filling? In many circumstances, composite fillings are utilised to replace existing amalgam fillings. Porcelain and composite resin are used to create composite fillings. The visible section of the tooth is made of porcelain, while the back portion is made of composite resin. Some folks worry that these fillings will be weak or won’t last long enough. It’s vital to remember that composite fillings come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Can Composite Fillings fall out?

Small cavities and fissures in teeth are routinely repaired using composite fillings, sometimes known as amalgam fillings. Resin and other materials, such as silver, tin, and copper, are used to create them. While composite fillings are a cost-effective solution to improve the appearance and function of your smile, they do have certain disadvantages.

For more information about composite fillings, Contact Todays Dental Now.

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