Composite Fillings Dentist

A composite fillings dentist uses composite quartz resin fillings instead of the more traditional metal based amalgam fillings. Besides the quartz resin, the material that makes up composite fillings, commonly known as white fillings, also normally contains some type of agent that is sensitive to light. Light is used to queue or the composite fillings quickly. These cosmetic fillings for your teeth are able to be bonded quickly into place. For this reason, composite fillings are also commonly called bondings.

A composite fillings dentist uses composite quartz resin fillings instead of the more traditional metal based amalgam fillings. Besides the quartz resin, the material that makes up composite fillings, commonly known as white fillings, also normally contains some type of agent that is sensitive to light. Light is used to queue or the composite fillings quickly. These cosmetic fillings for your teeth are able to be bonded quickly into place. For this reason, composite fillings are also commonly called bondings.

Your composite fillings dentist can also custom match the collaring of your existing teeth so that the fillings are very difficult to notice. Of course this makes them more desirable than the traditional silver-colored amalgam fillings. In addition, there are no toxic metal trace elements in composite fillings. Many people are very concerned because they have old amalgam fillings and they''re worried about mercury poisoning. It is notable that composite fillings are not as long-lasting as amalgam fillings.

The procedure followed by a composite fillings dentist:

Any existing decay is removed from a given tooth;
The tooth is prepared by conditioning the dentin and enamel;
A bonding agent is applied to the surface of a given etched tooth;
The composite material is then placed onto the tooth and then is formed;
Intense light rays are then focused on the composite filling to cure it. This normally takes just about 1/2 of 1 minute.
Your composite filling is now complete and can be used instantly for chewing.

Can anybody elect to have composite fillings?

In general, yes. As long as you are in stable overall health, are free from severe dental disease and have healthy gums, you are a candidate for composite fillings. Of course, having a cavity that needs filled is a prerequisite!

What are the benefits of composite fillings as compared to traditional amalgam fillings?

Compared to amalgam fillings, white composite fillings demonstrate many benefits to dental patients. Here are some of the most impressive:
Your white composite fillings dentist will use a material that contains only particles of glass and acrylic resins. There is no chance of developing mercury poisoning. They do not last quite as long as traditional, metal based amalgam fillings, but they are every bit as strong.
Because they are white, composite fillings match your natural teeth collaring far better than metal based fillings which are silver. So, when you show your pearly whites, they will actually be white!
Composite fillings produced less stress than do amalgam fillings on your teeth. The Ariane needed to install weight fillings on an individual tooth is considerably less than the area needed to install an amalgam filling. This helps to maintain individual tooth strength and decrease your probability for future issues.
Because you''re composite fillings dentist will use a high intensity light to queue on your composite fillings, the material used remains soft and pliable until the light is shined. This means that the dentist is able to make sure that the filling a shaped correctly on your tooth before hardening it. Additionally, using light to queue on the composite filling material makes the filling less likely to fade and color over time. And further, your new composite fillings are able to be used for chilling almost immediately.
Composite fillings are more resistant to temperature changes than are amalgam fillings. Because amalgam fillings contract and expand with temperature differences, they are likely to make your teeth crack over time. Composite fillings actually insulate your real teeth and add extra structural support.

Are there any risks involved? What do I need to consider before hiring the services of a composite fillings dentist?

Before you start replacing all of the silver in your mouth with composite resin dental fillings, keep in mind that it may not be for everyone. Here''s what you need to know about composite resin before you have any work done:
Not as durable or long-lasting as amalgam
Will need to be replaced every 7-10 years
May not be suitable for larger dental fillings
Procedure is more detailed and costly than amalgam restorations
Tooth-colored fillings are vulnerable to staining

There are alternative, natural-looking materials to conventional silver-colored fillings ? materials made from porcelain and composite resins, which are colored to match natural tooth enamel. Unfortunately, few materials can match the strength and durability of dental amalgam and such, may need more frequent replacement. Common amalgam alternatives include: Composite fillings ? As stated, composite fillings are just what the name implies: a mixture of resins and fine particles designed to mimic the color of natural teeth. While not as strong as dental amalgam, composite fillings provide a pleasing aesthetic alternative. Sometimes, composite resins need to be cemented, or bonded to a tooth to allow for better adhesion. Ionomers ? Like composite resins, these materials are tooth-colored. Ionomers are made from a combination of various materials, including ground glass and acrylic resins. Ionomers are typically used for fillings near the gum line or tooth root, where biting pressure is not a factor. They are more fragile than dental amalgam, however. A small amount of fluoride is released by these compounds in order to facilitate strengthened enamel in the affected area. Porcelain (ceramic) ? This material is usually a combination of porcelain, glass powder and ceramic. Candidates for porcelain fillings are typically crowns, veneers, onlays and inlays. Unlike ionomers, porcelain fillings are more durable but can become fractured if exposed to prolonged biting pressures.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care an appropriate health care provider.

Alan Roberts is a writer for Yodle, a business directory and online advertising company. Find a dentist or more dental care articles at Yodle Consumer Guide. Composite Fillings Dentist