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Currently, cosmetic dentistry is gaining traction since it helps improve your oral function, in addition to enhancing oral aesthetics. Composite fillings are one such affordable and widely performed aesthetic procedure that helps restore mild to moderate tooth cavities.
Experience oral rejuvenation and rehabilitation through composite fillings offered by the cosmetic dentist in Downtown Chicago.
Composite Fillings-Overview
Composite fillings are tooth-colored dental restorations that are a mixture of plastic (acrylic) resin reinforced with a powdered glass filler. These aesthetic fillings easily blend with your natural teeth. Thus they are best suited for use in anterior (front) teeth and other visible areas of the mouth. However, they can be used for posterior teeth (premolars and molars) as well.
Indications
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Diastema (space or gaps in between your teeth)
- Mild to moderate tooth decay
- Dental caries in the visible areas of your mouth
- Teeth that are worn out due to attrition (aging), increased masticatory forces, or bruxism (involuntary, persistent clenching and grinding of the teeth)
Composite fillings- Benefits
Composite fillings are emerging as one of the most widely used dental restorations since they offer numerous benefits. They:
- Provide good durability
- Appear natural since they are tooth-colored
- Provide excellent fracture resistance
- Involve a less time-consuming procedure
- Can fix minor flaws to major damage
- Are affordable
Composite fillings-Procedure
Getting a composite filling is fairly simple and safe, which involves the following steps:
- Your dentist will initially select an appropriate shade that matches your natural teeth.
- The affected tooth will be isolated using a rubber dam to prevent excess moisture that can interfere with the bonding of the composite material. It is then air-dried and excavated to remove the caries (decay).
- The dentist will etch and bond the tooth which creates micropores in your enamel surface to lock in the composite material. This ensures an effective bond between the tooth and the material, facilitating a good fit.
- The composite material will be layered carefully, and each layer will be cured through an LED light to set it.
- If the decay is present close to the nerves, then a particular medication would be placed before restoring it with composite filling. This provides an added protection.
- The composite filling will be shaped and polished according to your natural tooth morphology.
- The bite will be evaluated for any high points to make sure you are comfortable with the restoration.
Takeaway
Composite fillings are tooth-colored, durable restorations that are increasingly popular. These restorations effectively treat tooth cavities, offering superior aesthetics. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits can help prolong their lifespan.
