Composite resins are made of a resin filled with microscopic porcelain particles. Similar in color and texture to natural teeth, the fillings are less noticeable, and much more attractive, than other types of fillings. This material is used for either posterior or anterior teeth.
A large number of people had amalgam fillings (silver) in the past. Some amalgam fillings contained mercury that were effective in teeth color and tended to blacken in color over time. Tooth-colored fillings or composite resin dental fillings were created as an alternative to traditional metal dental fillings.
A tooth-colored alternative to traditional mercury fillings (amalgam).
• Decay on a portion of any tooth
• Desire to replace old-fashioned mercury (silver) fillings
• Desire to maintain a white, beautiful smile
Composite fillings are more than just beautiful and attractive. They are non-toxic because they contain no mercury. Composites strengthen the remaining tooth and help protect it from fracture because they bond directly to the surface of the tooth and don’t require the severe “undercut” of a amalgam filling. Research has shown that a well-sealed composite filling can restore the strength of a decayed tooth almost to the level of an unfilled tooth. A well-sealed composite filling can last as long as a silver mercury filling.
The initial investment in a composite filling is higher than that for a mercury filling. The materials are more expensive. However, this initial higher investment is offset in the long run by the health benefits and reduced likelihood of restoring potentially fractured teeth
Tooth colored inlays and onlays are sometimes good alternatives to composite fillings, offering excellent long term durability. In cases of extensive decay, inlays and onlays are the only alternatives to composite fillings.
Broken tooth is repaired quickly, easily and inexpensively. Another method of handling esthetic problems is cosmetic bonding. The broken tooth was restored with a composite resin filling material, no anesthesia was required, no tooth structure was removed. The result is an excellent restoration that improves the patient’s appearance.
Composite resin can be used to cover up areas of discolouration or surface defect in front teeth.
It can also be used to close small spaces between teeth.
Composite can do almost anything that can however the final appearance is not quite as good as ceramic Veneers . In the short to medium term however resin bonding represents a cost effective cosmetic solution.