Composite fillings are made of tooth-colored materials that can be used to repair teeth. They are sometimes recommended for use when there is not enough natural tooth material left in the area, or if you would like a filling that matches your other teeth better than metal fillings. If you’re considering composite fillings, talk with your dentist whether it’s right for your situation and schedule an appointment to get started.
What are composite fillings?
Composite fillings are tooth-colored fillings that can be used instead of silver amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are made out of a mixture of glass or quartz filler in an organic matrix. The organic matrix is made up of a polymer resin, which consists of both acrylic and vinyl polymers. Composite fillings are also referred to as ‘white’ or ‘tooth-colored fillings, but there are actually many different shades available.
How long do composite fillings last?
Overall, you want to avoid doing anything with your mouth that will stain the tooth since this could cause a change in the color of the material used for the filling. If kept clean, though, most composites can last up to 15 years before they need to be replaced or repaired by a dentist.
When should I get a new one?
If your dentist recommends a new composite filling, it means one of three things: there is a problem with the existing filling; the filling is old, or; you have had multiple fillings or crowns placed on top of one another and they cannot be distinguished. Composite (tooth-colored) fillings are not like silver amalgam which can last for up to 15 years but then need replacing. For the most part, composites should only be replaced when they show signs of wear.
Your dentist will carefully remove just what’s needed from the tooth structure that supports the filling before adding any new material. New composite fillings are extremely thin, so only very little tooth needs to be drilled out. Your dentist will take great care and attention and do everything possible to make this procedure as quick and painless as possible, minimizing the amount of tooth that is lost.
Will my tooth decay again after a filling is placed?
After a composite filling is placed, the early tooth decay will be gone. But it is possible for a cavity to form again around the same tooth, as well as on other teeth. That’s because your risk of getting dental caries (tooth decay) increases over time. If you want to keep your restored tooth from decaying again, you’ll need to care for it properly and visit your dentist regularly.
What is the difference between composite filling and porcelain crowns?
Composite fillings and porcelain crowns are both dental restorations used to restore the function and appearance of teeth. They differ in structure, preparation required, longevity, & cost.
Composite fillings look like natural teeth since they contain ingredients such as glass or quartz which give them some translucency and color (i.e., tooth-colored). Porcelain crowns like all-ceramic materials contain no organic material and therefore have a grey cast that is not natural looking on human teeth. Composite fillings require less reduction of healthy tooth structure than do porcelain crowns; therefore the amount of stress placed on the remaining tooth over time may be less for a composite restoration than for a porcelain crown.
Composite fillings are important because they can last for a long time and you don’t have to worry about the tooth decaying as much. If you’re looking for composite fillings, finding a dentist to provide you with composite fillings is an important step in maintaining your oral health. Readers who are from Portsmouth and surrounding area can consider Harrison Dental Arts. Dr. Harrison is one of the best rated dentist of Portsmouth and provides all sorts of dental services!
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