What are Composite Dental Fillings?

Almost everyone gets a cavity in their life, requiring dental filling for it. Earlier, people used all sorts of materials to fill these cavities, from stone chips and wood pieces to metal alloys. However, with the rising demand for aesthetically pleasing dental materials, dentists now use composite resin to rebuild the lost portion of your tooth. If you are looking for a durable, tooth-like dental restorative option, composite dental fillings are the thing for you.

In this article, we are going to discuss the ins and outs of composite dental fillings. So stay tuned.

What are Composite Dental Fillings?

Composite dental fillings are a restorative material used to rebuild the natural contour of teeth. They are a mixture of plastic resin and powdered glass filler that can be customized to match the natural tooth shade.

Earlier, dental fillings were mainly made of silver amalgam. However, because of the color disparity, amalgam fillings were easily noticeable. Hence, dentists started using composite resin to restore tooth shape and function. Composite dental fillings can withstand mild to moderate mastication (chewing) pressure without cracking or deforming.

When are Composite Dental Fillings Done?

Unlike silver amalgam, composite dental fillings are a versatile restorative option. Due to their combination of aesthetics and resilience, they can be used in anterior as well as posterior teeth. Here are some of the common applications of composite resin.

Composite fillings are ideal for fixing cracks or chips in the teeth.
They can be used to fill the gaps between teeth.
They effectively fix tooth loss due to attrition, abrasion, or erosion.
Composite is also used to fabricate veneers, crowns, or inlays.
It is also used for cementing orthodontic brackets on the tooth surface.

That being said, it is important to note that composite resin is not the best material for posterior teeth. Posterior teeth bear the highest masticatory load, and composite fillings there are more likely to fracture. Silver amalgam is preferred over composite fillings for posterior teeth.

Advantages of Composite Dental Fillings

Dentists nowadays prefer composite dental filling material over other materials because it offers several unique benefits. Some of these benefits are as follows.

Blends well with your natural teeth, making the filling almost invisible.
Requires less crown cutting for retention, sparing most of your natural tooth.
Requires less time for manipulation and setting than other dental materials.
Elevates dentine sensitivity in your teeth by insulating the exposed nerve fibers.
Can withstand mild to moderate forces easily.
Can be restored easily in a single visit if damaged or degraded.

What is the Composite Filling Procedure?

Unlike other restorative procedures, composite fillings take less time. If no complications are associated, they can be completed in a half-hour visit. When you visit your dentist for a composite dental filling, this is what your appointment will look like.

Your dentist will start by evaluating your condition to determine whether composite filling material is the right choice for you.
Then, they will match the different shades of composite to your tooth’s enamel to find the perfect match. This step should be carried out on wet teeth.
Then, they will apply a numbing agent.
After that, the dentist will drill into your tooth to remove the soft, decayed portion of the crown.
Then, they clean the surface with a sterilizing agent to prevent material contamination.
They will then etch and bond the surface for better retention.
Then, a cavity liner will be placed at the bottom of the cavity to prevent leeching of the material.
The dentist will then apply composite resin layer by layer, curing each layer.
After that, they will shape the filling to match the natural contours of the tooth.
At last, your dentist will polish the filling and look for any high points that disturb occlusion.

What are the Problems with Composite Fillings?

Any material, no matter how good, can not be perfect, and composite fillings are no exception. The following are some problems with composite fillings.

They do not last as long as silver amalgam fillings do.
They are less durable than amalgam fillings and have some potential to crack or chip.
The cavity must be completely dry during the procedure for better adherence, which is difficult to achieve.
As composite filling is applied in layers, it takes longer than some other materials, which can cause discomfort to kids, patients with special needs, and patients with dental anxiety.
According to research, it may have cytotoxic effects on the human body.
Because of their tooth-like appearance, composite dental fillings are more expensive than other materials. They are sometimes perceived as cosmetic procedures and not covered by some insurance policies.

How Long Does a Composite Filling Last?

Some people wonder, is composite a permanent filling? Well, no. Every filling has a lifetime. For composite fillings, they last from about 7 to 10 years. However, their longevity depends highly on how you treat them. Here are some tips to increase the longevity of your composite dental fillings.

Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly.
Avoid putting excessive force on the filling by eating hard foods.
Avoid acidic drinks since they can erode your filling.
Do not drink staining beverages such as tea, coffee, sodas, etc., as they can stain your filling.
Avoid having high-sugar food to avoid caries under the filling (secondary caries).
If you have a habit of grinding your teeth at night (bruxism), use nightguards.
Schedule regular appointments with the dentist to get cleanings periodically.

Conclusion

Composite dental fillings are an excellent restorative option that reinstates your tooth’s natural function while matching its aesthetic component. If you are considering getting a composite dental filling done, do not hesitate to contact us at Hesed Dental.

Our dental filling expert in NJ will listen to all your concerns while providing the best possible care. We also offer professional installation services and create custom veneers in our in-house labs to meet your specific needs. So, contact us today and make an appointment with our expert dentist in NJ.

Contact Hesed Dental Clinic

Do you have a toothache or think you may need a root canal? Call or find us online for a convenient appointment at Hesed Dental Clinic. Our skilled, professional staff is ready to gently and efficiently treat your dental issues. We are located at 543 Gorge Road, Cliffside Park, NJ 07010. We look forward to helping you restore optimal dental health and a natural, beautiful, pain-free smile.

What are Composite Dental Fillings?

What are Composite Dental Fillings?

When are Composite Dental Fillings Done?

Advantages of Composite Dental Fillings

What is the Composite Filling Procedure?

What are the Problems with Composite Fillings?

How Long Does a Composite Filling Last?

Conclusion

Contact Hesed Dental Clinic

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