Composite fillings, also called "white fillings" or "porcelain fillings", offer many advantages. Two primary advantages are the strength the material lends to the tooth and the possible esthetic results.
Composite filling are good for back teeth as well. To see a picture of back teeth white fillings,
Click Here
.
Composite fillings are made of two different materials. This dual composition gives them their name. The first material is a hard filler material, usually an aluminum compound with various other elements to give it the correct hardness and color. This material is so hard that it is difficult to drill with the dental handpiece! The other component is a resin or plastic. The most common one is a modified acrylic called BIS-GMA. This material will physically attach to the tooth, will hold the filler in place, and determines many of the physical properties of the filling.
Although all of the composites are similar, slight differences exist. These differences in composition result in different handling, wear, and therapeutic characteristics. In addition, some are chemically cured and others require light to initiate curing.
The composite we use most of the time is a light cured material with wear characteristics almost identical to dental enamel. This composite also releases fluoride to further protect the tooth against future decay. Many of the newer materials are variations of this material.
For many years, composites have been the preferred filling material for front teeth. Their color and workability make them an attractive, almost imperceptible filling material. However, until recently, these fillings required frequent polishing and replacement to maintain their appearance and function.
Although all of the composites are similar, slight differences exist. These differences in composition result in different handling, wear, and therapeutic characteristics. In addition, some are chemically cured and others require light to initiate curing.
The composite we use most of the time is a light cured material with wear characteristics almost identical to dental enamel. This composite also releases fluoride to further protect the tooth against future decay. Many of the newer materials are variations of this material.
©2003 Dr. James S. Eaves, DDS
For information about the website, click here.
For our Notice of Privacy Practices, click here.