For years, dental fillings were made of gold or another material that made them fairly easy to notice if someone looked closely at your teeth. However, as dental technology has improved over the years, fillings are no longer limited the original colors or material.
In this case, we are talking about composite fillings, which are sometimes called white, or tooth-colored fillings. The material for composite fillings is made from a mixture of powdered glass and acrylic resin. The material can be shaded so that it matches the rest of your tooth, which will make it difficult for other people to notice. Composite fillings easily adhere to the surface of your tooth and conform well to the opening made by your dentist.
While advances in dental medicine are finding ways to strengthen composite fillings, they are still not as strong as other types. They are normally used for smaller cavities that are easy to see, and for teeth that do not receive a great deal of biting or chewing pressure.
After removing the tooth decay, your dentist will choose the right shade of composite for you. That composite is applied in layers, and each layer is cured with a special light. Because of this, and because the tooth must be kept dry while the filling is placed, the composite filling process take longer than other fillings.
If you brush twice a day and floss at least once a day; and see your dentist for your regular appointments, the filling should last for approximately five years. The composite material can be stained, so you should limit your intake of colored foods and beverages.
If you have a tooth that needs some attention and are interested in composite fillings, our dentist, Dr. Honey Fiasconaro would love to see you! To make an appointment at Cenla Dentistry in Pineville, Louisiana, call 318-640-3200 today for an appointment.
