Turn
Those Ugly Metal Fillings Beautiful White
Did
you ever wish your teeth would look like they used to,
before they were filled with all of those silver-mercury
fillings? Many patients have found that wish a reality,
with a magic wand waved in one visit changing those dull,
ugly unnatural looking metal fillings to flawless, white
teeth. And the magical filling material that makes it
all happen is composite resin.
Composites
are some of the strongest materials in use today. These
versatile materials are used in the aircraft industry
to fabricate the bodies of ultra-fast jet fighters, by
NASA in the design components for space vehicles and satellites
as well as by dentistry for tooth filling material. When
used for teeth, composite is a tooth-colored mixture of
specialized polymer resins filled with microscopic ceramic
particles. Composites are used to fill cavities, and for
cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the color
of the teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth.
How
is a composite placed?
Following the preparation of the tooth, we place the composite
in layers, much as an artist or sculptor creates a perfect
work of art. Once placed, a specialized blue light is
used to harden each composite layer. When the process
is finished, the composite goes through a final shaping
and polishing to prevent staining and wear.
How
long does it take to place a composite?
For a skilled dentist, it takes the same amount of time
to place a composite filling as a silver-mercury filling.
Placement time depends on the size and location of the
cavity. Placement time also depends on the cosmetic needs
of the particular tooth.
What
are the advantages of composites?
Strength and esthetics are the main advantages.
These materials are incredibly strong and have the ability
to duplicate the strength of tooth structure. Because
composites bond to the tooth to support the remaining
tooth structure, it helps to prevent breakage and insulate
the tooth from excessive temperature changes. In addition,
we can blend shades to create a color identical to that
of the actual tooth.
