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Composite
Fillings
Until
recently, dentists filled and sealed cavities exclusively using a silver
and mercury amalgam. Unfortunately, these fillings (or restorations)
often weaken teeth due to the large amount of the original tooth that
has to be removed. Modern dentistry has increasingly turned to composite
fillings as a strong, safe and more natural looking alternative. Composite
fillings utilize a soft white plastic substance that includes a hardening
agent.
Pros
and Cons of Composite Fillings
The major advantage of these fillings is that they come in a range of
shades that closely match the color of an individual's tooth. Due to
the increased strength of modern composite material, they can now also
be used in the back teeth. Unfortunately, composite fillings are 1 1/2
to 2 times more expensive than traditional restorations. Dental insurance
typically covers the cost of composite fillings up to the price of the
silver/mercury fillings.
The
Filling Procedures
During your initial visit to the dentist, he or she begins by anesthetizing
the tooth and removing any remaining decay. Once the tooth has been
prepared, the dentist places the composite into the tooth where it binds
to the original surface. The process is typically performed in several
layers wherein each layer is cured or hardened with the use of a hardening
light. Composite restorations (fillings) for the back teeth are referred
to as inlays. If the inlays need to be custom-made at an off-site dental
lab, two visits to the dentist may be required. Once the dental office
receives the custom inlays, the patient returns to the dentist's office,
where the inlays will be bonded into place.
After
the Fillings Have Been Placed
Patients may have increased sensitivity in the tooth for several weeks
following the procedure. Unlike veneers, composite fillings are porous.
Over time, they may become stained from coffee, tea, tobacco, etc. Many
dentists place a clear covering over the filling to avoid any future
staining. Composite fillings typically last three to twelve years, depending
on the location of the restoration, an individual's occlusion (or bite),
and several other factors.
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