| A composite resin is a tooth-coloured
plastic mixture filled with glass (silicon
dioxide). Introduced in the 1960s, dental
composites were confined to the front teeth
because they were not strong enough to withstand
the pressure and wear generated by the back
teeth. Since then, composites have been
significantly improved and can be successfully
placed in the back teeth as well. Composites are
not only used to restore decayed areas, but are
also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile
by changing the colour of the teeth or reshaping
disfigured teeth. How is a composite
placed?
Following preparation, the dentist places the
composite in layers, using a light specialized
to harden each layer. When the process is
finished, the dentist will shape the composite
to fit the tooth. The dentist then polishes the
composite to prevent staining and early wear.
How long does it take to place a
composite?
It takes the dentist about 10-20 minutes longer
to place a composite than a silver filling.
Placement time depends on the size and location
of the cavity-the larger the size, the longer it
will take.
What are the advantages of composites?
Esthetics are the main advantage, since dentists
can blend shades to create a color nearly
identical to that of the actual tooth.
Composites bond to the tooth to support the
remaining tooth structure, which helps to
prevent breakage and insulate the tooth from
excessive temperature changes.
What are the disadvantages?
After receiving a composite, a patient may
experience post-operative sensitivity. Also, the
shade of the composite can change slightly if
the patient drinks tea, coffee or other staining
foods. The dentist can put a clear plastic
coating over the composite to prevent the color
from changing if a patient is particularly con-cerned
about tooth color. Composites tend to wear out
sooner than silver fillings in larger cavities,
although they hold up as well in small cavities.
How long will a composite last?
Studies have shown that composites last 7-10
years, which is comparable to silver fillings
except in very large restorations, where silver
fillings last longer than composites.
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