Main Advantages Of Composite Fillings

What are Composite Fillings?rnOne of the ways to repair a decayed tooth that has to be drilled out is with a composite filling. Composite or tooth-colored fillings are made from a combination of plastic and glass particles. These materials have become popular in cosmetic dentistry because their color can be manipulated to match the patient’s teeth. This creates a natural appearance and reduces the patient’s esthetic concerns. The filling is hardened using a special light and the material bonds with the tooth over time, making it almost a real part of the tooth. Benefits of Composite Fillings Composite Fillings vs. Dental Amalgam The biggest advantage of composite fillings compared to dental amalgam (silver) fillings is the color. Amalgam is made of a combination of metals and the color cannot be altered. Many patients also question the safety of using amalgam since around 50% of the filling material is made of mercury. The rest of the metals used for amalgam are silver, tin, zinc, and copper which actually renders the mercury inert. Although the American Dental Association has studied and declared that amalgam is safe, patients who are health-conscious may feel uncomfortable getting amalgam fillings. When getting amalgam fillings, the dentist will need to remove more of your natural tooth structure; whereas a minimal amount of removal is needed for tooth-colored fillings. Amalgam also changes color over time and can stain the teeth, whereas composite fillings match tooth color and do not stain easily. Composite Fillings vs. Other Filling Materials Gold is another filling material used by dentists, but it is considered more as a luxury than a practical choice. As compared to tooth-colored fillings, gold fillings are very expensive, given that they are made of a precious metal. Although gold fillings may last 15 or more years, you can get the same lifespan from composite fillings if you take good care of your teeth. Ceramic is also tooth-colored, but it is made of porcelain and is much more brittle and easy to damage than composite resin. It has a shorter lifespan of 5 years and can be as expensive as gold fillings. Ceramic fillings also require more tooth mass to be removed because a smaller filling can break more easily. Glass ionomer is a more sophisticated dental filling that was only invented in the 1970s. This material is unique because it releases fluoride which strengthens the teeth and reduces the recurrence of decay. However, it has a shorter lifespan than composite fillings and does not blend to exactly match tooth color. It can easily get worn or fractured, especially if you frequently eat hard foods. Glass ionomer can be mixed with composite resin to achieve a better color match as well as more strength and durability. Composite Fillings in General Composite fillings have a unique formula which allows the material to bond with the tooth permanently, as though the filling were a real part of the tooth. This makes the tooth stronger and less prone to breaking or decay. The process of applying the filling is also relatively quick and requires only one dental visit, reducing the dentist’s professional fees. The lifespan of composite fillings is around 5-10 years, but they can last longer with proper use and dental hygiene. The cost of tooth-colored fillings is also fairly affordable, and if you have a health insurance policy that covers dental fillings, you can get a part or the whole of the cost paid by your insurance provider, depending on your specific policy. When getting composite fillings, make sure that the dentist you choose is experienced and highly skilled. Your dentist may also recommend other filling materials depending on your preferences and dental condition and budget. You may visit a general dentist in Adelaide to get more details about dental fillings and find out what works best for you.