Has your dentist recommended using a composite filling? Fillings are one of the most common dental procedures. There are several options for filling a damaged or drilled tooth, including composite material.
They’re a popular, affordable option but aren’t right for everyone. Here’s what you need to know about composite fillings before deciding it’s the right kind of filling for you.
What Is a Composite Filing?
Composite fillings are used to fill cracks, gaps, or drilled holes in damaged teeth. Most often, people get composite fillings after they’ve had a cavity drilled away from a portion of their tooth, but dental fillings are also used to repair various other issues or restore damaged crowns.
Composite fillings are made from plastic resin reinforced with powdered glass filler to hold the hardened resin in place.
Why Choose Composite Fillings
People opt for composite resin dental fillings for a variety of reasons. They provide many benefits that you don’t get with traditional amalgam fillings.
For example, composite fillings are aesthetically appealing. Unlike a silver-coloured amalgam filling, composite fillings are tooth-coloured.
This means they blend with your tooth’s natural colour, making the filling less noticeable. In most cases, nobody but you and your dentist can even tell if a tooth has been filled when you use composite material.
These fillings also require less removal of the healthy part of the tooth. Conserving as much of the tooth as possible is essential because doing so helps maintain the integrity and strength of the tooth.
This reduces the risk of future fractures or damage. Before installing another type of filling, your dentist will need to drill away more of the tooth than they would with a composite dental filling.
Composite resin bonds directly to the tooth surface, creating a stronger and more durable filling that can withstand the forces of chewing and biting. They are also less sensitive to temperature changes compared to metal fillings.
This makes sense because if you consider how the metal reacts to cold or hot temperatures compared to how plastic does when these materials are outside of your mouth, you’ll see why your teeth will experience less sensitivity because the material of the filling is less affected by exposure to hot and cold.
Another benefit of composite resin fillings is their versatility. Composite fillings are used to repair cavities, chips, and cracks.
They can even be used to reshape teeth for purely cosmetic purposes. It’s so versatile because it can be molded and shaped to achieve optimal aesthetics and function.
Finally, and for many people, most importantly, a composite resin filling is mercury-free. Anyone concerned about the potential health risks associated with mercury exposure will want to avoid silver amalgam fillings.
Many dentists no longer offer this option despite the strength and low cost of this type of filling. Composite fillings are also safer and better for the environment.
Alternatives to Composite Fillings
Of course, a composite dental filling isn’t your only option. Alternatives to composite fillings include:
- Amalgam: Amalgam fillings are made of a mixture of metals, usually including silver and mercury. They have been used for centuries and are very durable.
- Gold: Gold fillings are made of gold alloy and can last decades. They also pose little risk of allergic reaction or sensitivity.
- Ceramic (Inlays/Onlays): Ceramic or porcelain fillings are custom-made to match the natural colour of your teeth. People opt for this type of filling, especially for the most visible teeth, because they are highly resistant to staining.
- Glass ionomer: Glass ionomer fillings are made of a blend of glass and acrylic. Many believe they are the best option for patients with a high risk of tooth decay because they release fluoride.
- Compomers: Compomers use a mix of composite resins and glass ionomers. This means you get the benefits of both materials.
What to Consider Before Deciding to Get a Composite Filling
There are several factors to consider before opting for a composite filling. For example:
- Your age
- Importance of aesthetics and how visible the tooth to be filled is when you open your mouth or smile
- Cost
- Whether or not you are allergic to any of the materials used in any of the types of fillings
Potential Risks of Composite Fillings
The potential risks of choosing a composite filling over another option include:
Allergic Reactions
Although rare, some people experience allergic reactions to the materials used in composite resin fillings.
One of the most common risks is BPA (bisphenol-A). Signs of a mild to moderate allergic reaction include discomfort and inflammation.
Tooth Sensitivity
Some patients experience increased tooth sensitivity following the placement of their composite filling. It can range from mild to severe and might be short-lived or long-term.
Chipping or Cracking
Composite resin fillings have a higher risk of chipping or cracking than other fillings, such as amalgam or gold fillings.
This is especially true when the filling is placed in the molars where chewing force tends to be greater.
Discoloration
Over time, composite resin fillings tend to discolour for the same reason natural teeth do. This is usually only a concern for the most visible teeth in the mouth.
Leakage and decay
Properly placed composite fillings have a good seal. However, if, for whatever reason, a filling doesn’t properly seal with your tooth, there is a risk of leakage.
This increases your risk of bacteria and food particles seeping into your natural tooth, causing continued decay that eventually will need repair.
Durability
Composite fillings are durable, but their lifespan isn’t as long as those made of gold or other metals. Proper dental care can extend the life of a composite filling.
Technique Sensitivity
Successful placement is essential because a misplaced filling increases the risk of complications such as sensitivity, leakage, or premature failure.
Cost
Composite fillings cost more than silver amalgam fillings.
If you choose this type of filling, it’s important to monitor the tooth for signs of decay or damage over time.
Your dentist will examine the filling during your annual or bi-annual appointments. However, you can also inspect the filling when you brush and/or floss.
If you’d like to learn more about composite fillings and whether this type of filling is right for you, visit You Make Me Smile Dental Centre.
