Composite fillings are a type of dental filling that uses tooth-colored material to repair lost tooth structure. They are used for cosmetic purposes, or in emergencies when the structure of the natural tooth is weak and cannot support conventional fillings. These fillings are typically stronger than amalgam fillings, which can be made from mixed metal alloys with mercury and silver, which can cause damage to your teeth’s enamel if they come into contact with it. As such, composite fillings are usually recommended as a safer alternative.
A dentist in Powell, TN, suggests getting composite fillings for various reasons. Composite fillings are stronger than their amalgam counterparts and are a good choice if you want a stronger tooth structure. They also are typically less expensive than gold-filled fillings, which use alloys with gold in them to create the desired strength. Also, composite fillings do not contain mercury, which can leach into your system over time and cause health concerns. However, these fillings cannot be used to seal cavities or place dental fillings where there is no natural tooth structure.
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Here are some common reasons for you to consider getting composite fillings.
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Chipped teeth
If you have chipped or cracked teeth, a dentist may recommend composite fillings to mend these problems. Composite fillings can be directly applied over the chipped or cracked area of your tooth and can bond with the natural structure of your tooth and provide strength to the tooth enamel.
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Decayed teeth
If you have decayed teeth, conventional silver amalgam fillings cannot be placed until the decay is removed. However, composite fillings can be placed immediately over the decayed tooth area, even if a cavity still exists in that region of your tooth. The dentist will help create a barrier between the new composite filling and the cavity to prevent it from further weakening your teeth’s structure.
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Worn teeth
If you have worn teeth, which are teeth that have lost their natural structure due to constant use and tear, then composite fillings may be recommended. Composite fillings can be used to cover up worn areas of your tooth so that they match the rest of your teeth’s enamel.
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Closing space between two teeth
With composite fillings, you can fill the space between two teeth with a tooth-colored structure that matches the rest of your teeth’s enamel. This will prevent food from getting stuck in this area of your mouth and make it more comfortable.
