RESIN COMPOSITE FILLINGS

Resin composite fillings are constructed from tooth-colored plastics mixed with a glass-like silver dioxide particles.  They are commonly used in cosmetic dentistry because they look so natural, are very strong, mercury-free, bio-compatible, and securely bonded to the tooth.  They can be used for restoring decayed or damaged areas of a tooth or for cosmetic improvements.

We use composite resin fillings rather than the older amalgam type (hard silver-mercury metal). Because metal expands and contracts, amalgam fillings tend to flex, possibly even fracturing the existing tooth. If that happens, the tooth structure is irreparably damaged. Also, amalgam fillings are not bonded to the tooth and can leak around the fillings, causing further decay.

The Process

After the materials are prepared, Dr. Rogers places the composite on the tooth in layers and then uses a special light to harden the material. When the application process is complete, he shapes the composite to perfectly fit the tooth, and polishes the area to make it more stain resistant and durable.

Advantages of Resin Composite Fillings

Composite fillings have several distinct advantages over other types of fillings:

• Because highly experienced dentists such as Dr. Rogers have the skill to blend composite resins to perfectly match the actual tooth’s color, teeth repaired with composite fillings look very natural.
• Composites bond strongly to, and help support the remaining tooth structure. This helps to prevent breakage and insulate the tooth from excessive temperature changes.