Do you have a cavity in your teeth? Well, in that case, your dentist would recommend getting a filling. In this post, we’d decode what composite resins are and whether they are really any good. This would shed some light on the uses of composite fillings and why they are widely recommended by any professional dentist in Canberra.
Introduction to composite fillings
When it comes to dental restorations, there are several different types of materials used, but the most common of them all are composite fillings or composite resin.
That said, even a few years back, amalgam was the widely used material for dental restorations, but that has much changed in recent years. This is chiefly because of the looks that composite fillings offer and their durability.
For those new to this, composite fillings have a natural appearance. In fact, the composite material can be customized to match the shade of your teeth. This makes them a discrete option.
The tooth-colored material used in composite fillings is a mixture of plastic or acrylic resin and powdered glass filler. It is used in various dental restorations in Canberra dentistry. This includes fillings, crowns, inlays, and veneers, among the notable.
Difference between composite fillings and amalgam
While amalgam fillings are crafted from a variety of metals, the composite resins make use of plastic and ceramic.
While amalgam has been around for over 100 years and once used to be a popular option for tooth fillings, composite fillings have started becoming popular, especially for people looking for discrete tooth filings.
So, the type of fillings you choose for your tooth all boils down to your budget, dental history, and personal preferences.
Benefits of white composite fillings used in Canberra dentistry
Until a few years back, metal fillings such as silver and gold amalgam were widely used, but slowly, composite fillings came up as a better alternative.
Here are a few benefits of the same.
They look natural: White composite fillings give a natural appearance to the teeth, unlike the metal options which are easily identifiable and aren’t too pleasant to look at. The composite resin is crafted to mimic the color of your teeth and thus blends with the natural enamel. This thus helps you achieve a seamless look.
Completely non-toxic: The white composite filling includes ceramic and non-toxic plastic, thus making it a safer alternative to the metal versions. As metal fillings are made of various metal alloys and even include mercury, it can lead to allergies. On the other hand, the resin fillings are completely non-toxic.
Easy to install: White composite fillings harden quickly. Once the filling is applied, a special light accelerates the hardening process, and the special bonding agent clicks to the teeth in a matter of seconds. So, by the end of your appointment with a dentist in Canberra, you’d have natural-looking teeth.
Highly durable: White fillings weren’t usually considered hard enough to withstand pressures that of grinding and chewing, however, with the advent of technology, the quality of these has much improved. The modern-day white composite fillings can last long and can be placed almost anywhere in the mouth without the fear of cracking.
Resistant to temperature change: Old fillings were generally made up of metals such as silver and alloys, and thus they used to expand or contract when exposed to variable temperatures. This often led them to crack or loosen. On the other hand, the modern composite resins are resistant to temperature changes, and thus are great for protecting the teeth from hot and cold food items.
Reduce tooth sensitivity: As composite resins are resistant to temperature changes, they reduce teeth sensitivity by insulating the teeth from all kinds of hot and cold beverages and food items. You may experience slight tooth sensitivity immediately after the procedure, but that quickly goes away.
The dos and don’ts after getting composite fillings
Follow the advice of your dentist in Canberra and take your medicines to control the initial tenderness.
Reach out to your dentist if you experience persistent pressure sensitivity for a few days.
Brush and rinse your teeth gently for a few days.
Avoid drinking any hot beverage after the procedure.
Avoid chewing gums or anything similar until the numbness is completely gone.
Avoid having beverages or food items for at least 1-2 hours if you experience nausea.
Key takeaway
White composite fillings are great for people who want a filling that not only prevents further tooth decay or weakening the tooth but also does a great job in making your smile attractive. This is why, Canberra dentistry has started relying on white composite resins.
Want to know more about dental procedures in Canberra? Feel free to comment below, and we’d love to shed some light on your query.
