The Benefits Of Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin fillings, also referred to as tooth-colored fillings or white fillings, are the most common dental fillings placed today. That is because there are many benefits associated with composite resin material. Tooth-colored fillings were developed for a few reasons, mainly because they are more esthetically pleasing, and also because they are metal free.
The use of silver amalgam fillings has been wrought with controversy for decades due to the fact that tin, silver, and copper are bound together with mercury which makes up about 50 percent of the filling material. The development of tooth-colored fillings, however, has helped silence the mercury debate, as white fillings have proven to be strong, esthetic, and safe.
What is Composite Resin
Dental composite is a tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture that is not only strong, but blends with your natural dentition. It is most commonly used to restore decayed teeth, but is also used for cosmetic improvements. Composite resin can be tinted to match your own unique tooth color and is the treatment of choice for anterior fillings.
Benefits
Tooth decay weakens your tooth structure leaving the rest of your tooth vulnerable to possible chips, fractures, and breakage. However, in addition to being esthetic, because composite resin is bonded to the inside of the dental cavity, it reinforces the tooth structure making it stronger and more durable. This is extremely important because even the loss of one tooth, can lead to other more serious dental issues.
Composite resin also insulates the tooth from the discomfort of, and the expanding and contracting due to, extreme temperature changes. In contrast, silver amalgam can cause tooth sensitivity and breakage due to its reaction to temperature changes.