What Are Composite Dental Fillings?
Composite fillings are an alternative to traditional amalgam fillings. They’re made up of a mixture of different substances, including fine glass and plastic. This type of filling provides an alternative to traditional amalgam fillings. It is more durable than other types of dental restorations and can be used in many situations where amalgams cannot be placed.
Why Are They Better Than Amalgam Fillings?
Composite fillings cannot chip or shrink and they don’t need to be ground down, like amalgam fillings. They are mostly white in color and have a glossy finish. They are also translucent and they can mimic the appearance of natural teeth better than other kinds of fillings.
Composite fillings require some skill in placement because they have lower strength than amalgams and they must be handled carefully so that excess amount of material does not get placed into the tooth cavity. The basic procedure is much the same as with placing an amalgam filling except that composite materials do not contain mercury.
How Do I Know If I Need Them?
Dr. Nicacio can recommend whether dental fillings are needed or not after he gets an x-ray and sees the condition of your teeth. This is because, for example, if you have cavities near the roots of your teeth a composite filling may be put in those cavities to prevent infection from spreading up into the tooth root (which would require root canal therapy). If there are no cavities near the roots as well as healthy gums surrounding them then it may not be necessary. However, even with healthy-looking teeth, if they haven’t been maintained they could still develop decay which is irreversible.
Dr. Nicacio at Hermiston Dental offers affordable services that will give your teeth a healthy and beautiful look for less money than other kinds of fillings. We have been doing this for over 20 years, so you know you can trust us. Call us today to schedule an appointment or request an appointment online!
