Composite fillings have, for the vast majority of cases where fillings are required, largely replaced silver fillings. Their chief advantage is that they do not react to changes in temperature by expanding and contracting the way silver fillings can. Those expansions and contractions can, in some instances, actually cause teeth to crack eventually. As a cosmetic dentist in Lincoln, NE, we at West Gate Dental can provide you with state-of-the-art fillings of composite resin.
Other Characteristics of Composite Fillings
The resin that makes up composite fillings is the same color as healthy teeth. Cosmetically, that's generally preferred to the appearance of either silver or gold fillings. Chemically, the resin bonds to the tooth in question through a reaction. Sometimes, your cosmetic dentist in Lincoln will use a special acid to create minuscule holes, which will then strengthen the already-strong bond between the hardened resin composite and your tooth enamel.
Additionally, using a material that bonds so well with the existing enamel shores up whole-tooth integrity. That can prevent necessitating an extraction when a tooth's integrity is in question. Although it's rare before the filling's general maximum lifespan, composite fillings can crack, flake, or otherwise suffer damage. When this happens, your dentist will be able to repair the damage by adding a small amount of additional composite. That'll bond in the same way as the original composite did. This is far better than in cases when a silver or gold filling falls out or becomes damaged. In that case, your dentist would need to replace the entire filling.
The Lifespan of Composite Fillings
If there is a chief drawback to composite fillings, then it's the fact that they last only about 10 years. Generally, the smaller the filling, the longer it lasts. A particularly large filling could last only about five to seven years. Compared to silver amalgam fillings, or even gold fillings, they last only about half as long.
Still, research is ongoing regarding composite fillings, seeking to improve their sturdiness and longevity. When it comes to cosmetic dentistry in Lincoln, NE, We strive always to have the "newest and best" materials and equipment available. That way, we can provide you with the kind of oral healthcare you've come to expect. Give us a call at the office in Lincoln to book an appointment.
Those Possible Future Improvements
Apart from trying to improve the lifespan of composite fillings, researchers are also looking to add material to the composites that could control harmful bacteria. The idea would be not to affect the beneficial bacteria that inhabit people's mouths. The newest material that's being added to the composite resin is methacrylamide, which strengthens the bond not only immediately but also over time. So far, it hasn't shown the bacteria-hindering characteristic. However, its improvement of the bond has increased the lifespan of resin composite.
Appointments
You might have a cavity already. Or, you might want a checkup to check things out. In either case, we're ready to help you. Call the office today for cosmetic dentistry in Lincoln, NE, or drop by to make an appointment at your earliest convenience. In either case, we'd be glad to see you!