Blog
05/23/2023
Composite fillings were first introduced in the 1960s. They only became widely used in the 1980s when advances in dental materials and technology made them more durable and practical. Since then, composite fillings have become a popular alternative to traditional metal (amalgam) fillings, particularly for repairing teeth in visible areas of the mouth. Today, composite fillings are one of the most common dental restorations used by dentists worldwide and one of the most popular dental procedures in Alpha Plus Dental Center in Brookline.
Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored, are dental restoration materials used to repair a tooth that decay, cracks, or fractures have damaged. They are made of a resin material designed to blend in with the natural color of your teeth, making them an excellent choice for repairing teeth in visible areas of the mouth. Composite fillings have several advantages over other types of dental fillings. They are more aesthetically pleasing, as they can be color-matched to the natural shade of your teeth. They also require less removal of healthy tooth structure than metal fillings, which can help preserve more of the natural tooth.
To place a composite filling, the dentist will first remove the decayed or damaged part of the tooth, then clean the area to prepare it for the filling material. The composite material is then applied to the tooth in layers, with each layer being cured (hardened) using a special light before the next layer is applied. Once the filling has been built up to the desired shape, the dentist will polish it to make it smooth and blend in with the surrounding teeth. Once the filling has been placed and cured, you can resume your regular eating habits.
Alpha Plus Dental Center is a biological practice, and we always use minimally invasive techniques and biocompatible materials in our office. We place composites without BPA and the classic monomers, which contain xenoestrogens and can cause hormonal imbalances, especially in women trying to get pregnant. Our composite, Admira Fusion, is a purely ceramic-based restorative material that combines the benefits of glass ionomer and nano-hybrid composites. It was designed to provide superior aesthetics, durability, and long-lasting restorations. We focus on the interconnectedness of oral health with systemic health and emphasize the use of biologically safe and natural treatment methods.
The lifespan of composite fillings depends on several factors, including the size and location of the filling, the condition of the tooth, and how well you take care of your oral health. Composite fillings can last several years with proper care. Maintaining composite fillings is like preserving natural teeth.
Here are some tips to help keep your composite fillings in good condition:
- Brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay.
- Floss daily helps remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and along the gum line, which can prevent gum disease and decay.
- Chewing on hard or sticky foods can cause composite fillings to crack or come loose. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candy, or sticky foods like caramel or taffy.
- If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and composite fillings from damage.
- Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help detect any issues with your composite fillings early on and prevent further damage or decay.
- Composite fillings can be prone to staining, so it's best to avoid substances that can discolor your teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco products.