Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are available
Composite fillings treat cavities to protect teeth and restore oral health. There are various types of fillings that dentists can use to fill a cavity. However, composite fillings are the most common type due to their natural appearance and good durability.
If you have a tooth that requires a filling, composite fillings may be a good option. Composite fillings are available at Cedar Grove Dental Group in Cedar Grove, NJ and the surrounding area. Call us today at (973) 857-0567 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Learn about Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are made of a tooth-colored resin that includes plastic and additives, sometimes with glass particles mixed in. They are commonly used to treat cavities but can also enhance the cosmetic appearance of a tooth by reshaping it. Other types of fillings include gold, porcelain, and silver amalgam. Metal fillings are more noticeable in the mouth compared to composite fillings. Porcelain fillings are closer in color to surrounding teeth but can be expensive. Many patients find that composite fillings provide a good balance of aesthetics, affordability, and durability.
“For many patients, composite fillings offer a balance of aesthetics, affordability, and durability.”
Composite tooth fillings offer several advantages
Composite fillings may be the solution for patients with tooth decay. A National Institute of Health survey found that 92% of adults between ages 20 and 64 have tooth decay. Composite fillings offer several benefits, such as:
- Fix Decay and Other Issues: Composite fillings primarily address tooth decay but can also repair cracks, chips, and tooth wear, restoring a tooth’s function and health.
- Subtle Aesthetics: Composite fillings are very discreet. They can be color-matched to the surrounding teeth, providing a natural appearance that many patients prefer.
- Strong Bonding to Teeth: Composite fillings bond well with the treated tooth, strengthening and supporting the remaining natural tooth, and helping to prevent or slow further tooth damage.
- Minimal Drilling Needed: Compared to other filling types, especially silver amalgam, composite fillings require minimal drilling. They can fit into small cavity spaces, allowing patients to retain more of their natural tooth structure.
“According to one National Institute of Health survey, 92% of adults between ages 20 and 64 have tooth decay.”
Different Kinds of Fillings
Composite fillings are a popular choice for many patients, but they may not be the best option for everyone. Some patients may prefer the aesthetic appeal of tooth-colored fillings, while others may prefer the durability of gold or porcelain fillings. In fact, gold and porcelain fillings can last 10 or more years longer than composite fillings, and silver amalgam fillings may last about five years longer.
According to the American Dental Association, composite fillings can take longer to place and may be more expensive compared to silver amalgam fillings. However, they are less costly than gold and porcelain fillings. It is important for patients to discuss the pros and cons of each type of filling with their dentist before making a decision.
“Although composite fillings are the most popular type of filling, they are not always the right choice for every patient.”
A Filling Is Required
Fillings are often needed for various reasons, with tooth decay being the most common. Fillings are a minimally invasive way to address decay, as well as cracks, chips, and wear on teeth. They can also be used to fill small holes not caused by decay, or for cosmetic purposes like correcting discoloration or misshapen teeth.
While patients of all ages may require fillings, children with primary teeth are less likely to need them. According to a National Institute of Health survey, 85% of adults have had at least one filling by age 34. The likelihood of needing a filling can vary based on individual oral hygiene practices.
