Composite fillings have been gaining traction when choosing a dental filling material. This is because they offer several benefits over traditional amalgam restorations. Composite fillings are recommended for mild to moderate tooth cavities. They are aesthetically superior and strongly bond with the tooth enamel.
Let us take a comprehensive look at the benefits of composite fillings offered by the dental practice in Lansing, MI, and explain why dentists often recommend them.
An insight into composite fillings
Composite fillings are dental materials made of a plastic resin mixed with a powdered glass filler. The filling is placed and then cured by a light-cured special glue. The material hardens through a process called polymerization. These aesthetic fillings help restore tooth structure lost due to caries, cracks, or fractures.
Uses of composite fillings
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Diastema (space or gaps in between your teeth)
- Dental decay in the visible areas of your mouth
- Teeth that are worn out due to attrition (aging), increased masticatory forces, or bruxism (involuntary, persistent clenching and grinding of the teeth)
A comprehensive look at the benefits of composite fillings
Composite fillings can be valuable dental materials due to the following benefits:
- Aesthetically superior
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- Composite fillings are tooth-colored restorations that easily blend with your natural tooth structure.
- The filling is less visible, which can improve our facial aesthetics.
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- Bond directly to the tooth enamel
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- Composite fillings bond directly to the enamel surface, thus establishing a stronger seal.
- This helps prevent secondary tooth decay.
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- Does not contain mercury
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- Mercury is toxic and can be harmful to the body when ingested.
- Composite fillings do not contain mercury, unlike amalgam restorations.
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- Preserves the tooth structure
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- Composite fillings do not require extensive tooth preparation, thus preventing the weakening of the tooth structure.
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- Acts as a shield against dental caries
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- Composite fillings contain fluorides that help prevent the occurrence of caries in the future.
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- Are stain-resistant
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- The resin present in composite filling does not stain the teeth, thereby making it stain-resistant.
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- Offers excellent durability and strength
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- The composite material hardens through polymerization, which improves the strength and resilience of composites.
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- Quick procedure
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- Composite fillings are quick and painless procedures that usually take 10 to 15 minutes.
Takeaway
Composite fillings are tooth-colored, durable restorations that are increasingly popular among dentists due to several benefits offered. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits can help prolong their lifespan. This aids in oral rehabilitation to restore its form, function, and aesthetics.
