Role Of Composite Fillings And Other Filling Materials
Tomball, TX

If you have a hole in one of your teeth, your dentist will almost definitely tell you to get a filling as soon as possible to prevent infection.Restorative dentistry can use many materials, but amalgam and composite are the most common filling materials.For a long time, the most common material for fillings was an amalgam.

Composite fillings, on the other hand, are becoming more common because they look good and last a long time. In the following blog, we’ll discuss composite fillings, how long they usually last, and if they pose any health risks.

What Do Composite Fillings Consist Of?

Composite fillings look more like natural teeth than other types. You can change the color of the composite material to match the color of your teeth, so when you smile, it’s almost impossible to see.

But what is this object that looks like a tooth? It is made of a combination of plastic (acrylic) resin and glass powder. It can be used to fix several dental problems. Dentists sometimes use this composite resin to fix or fix up teeth that are broken or chipped.

Numerous Different Substances For Dental Filling

When it comes to fillings, your dentist may give you more than one option. Here’s is a simple comparison:

Amalgam (silver)

For many years, these were the most common type of filling and are still used in many regions of the world. They’re very sturdy and might last up to 15 years. The dentist doesn’t have to worry about keeping the tooth clean and dry while the crown is being put in. They are also less expensive than some other valuable materials to fix teeth.

But in the last few years, they have become less popular. Since they don’t match the color of your teeth, they don’t look natural. Mercury is also in amalgam fillings, but the American Dental Association says it is a “viable and safe” choice. A 2014 review found that there isn’t enough proof of harmful effects.

Ceramic Fillings

Ceramic fillings, made of porcelain, also tend to last long. They can last up to 15 years on average. But they aren’t used very often because they tend to be very expensive and the process takes two visits.

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are more expensive than other types, but you get what you pay. They are strong and can last at least 20 years. Most of the time, they need two visits.

Glass ionomer Fillings

Glass fillers make glass ionomer fillings. Glass ionomer fillings are tooth-colored and can be shaded to match a person’s teeth, just like composite resin fillings. This means that they will be less noticeable than mercury-filled.

They also give off fluoride, which makes it less likely that a new cavity will form. But they don’t last as long as amalgam fillings and aren’t as strong. Also, they might not be suitable for cavities that are too big.

How Long Do Composite Fillings Stays?

Composite fillings are robust but do not last as long as other fillings. According to a study from 2010, a filling made of composite resin would last about 7 years.

Another review of multiple studies from 2010 says that if you take good care of your composite fillings, you might get 10 years out of them. But that study also says that a composite filling might not last as long if you get cavities a lot.

How To Place Composite Restorations?

Composite fillings are often simple and can be completed in a single visit, barring any exceptional situations.Here is the procedure by which composite restoration is done:

• Your dentist may select the composite color that will be used to fill your tooth at the beginning of your appointment. According to studies, it is preferable to make this match before your mouth and teeth become too dry, which could make your teeth appear less white.
• A local anesthetic administration is done through injection to numb the tooth and its surrounding area.
• The dentist will drill through your tooth’s enamel and remove the decaying portion.
• They will disinfect the region, dry it, and prepare the tooth. Depending on the severity of the injury, this may necessitate shaving some teeth.
• The dentist will etch and glue the affected tooth.
• Layer-by-layer composite material is added. After that light curing is done on the composite filling, which will harden—light curing each layer of the composite before proceeding to the next.
• The tooth is then rounded before polishing by the dentist.
• Your dentist will evaluate your bite to ensure the treatment is comfortable.

Composite fillings may fulfill your goal for aesthetically pleasing restorations that do not detract from your smile. In addition, it may prevent additional dental decay from weakening your teeth. A dentist can discuss your options with you to ensure that you have chosen the best one. Thus, you will know what to anticipate from the filling. You can visit our dental clinic for the best restorative dentistry related treatment.