A composite filling is a tooth-coloured plastic and glass mixture used to restore decayed teeth. Composites are also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the colour of the teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth.

Composite resins provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small- to mid-sized fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing. They can be used on either front or back teeth. They are a good choice for people who prefer that their fillings look more natural.

HOW IS A COMPOSITE PLACED?

Tooth-coloured composite fillings are chemically bonded to teeth. Once the decayed area is removed, the tooth is cleaned and a primer (weak acid) is applied to the area being restored. The primer opens pores in the enamel and dentine. A bonding agent is then flowed into the open pores and cured, typically using a light specialised to harden each layer.

Once the white filling hardens, your bite will be checked to make sure your teeth fit together properly. If the tooth filling extends into the space between your teeth, your dentist will also make sure you can floss between your teeth properly. Adjustments will be made if necessary, followed by smoothing and polishing of your new filling.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF COMPOSITES?

Aesthetics are the main advantage of composites, since dentists can blend shades to create a colour nearly identical to that of the actual tooth. Composites are particularly well suited for use in front teeth or visible parts of teeth.

Composites bond to the tooth to support the remaining tooth structure which helps to prevent breakage and insulate the tooth from excessive temperature changes. The bonding of white fillings to the tooth restore 85-95 per cent of the original strength of the tooth.

They completely harden in seconds instead of days required by some other materials and tooth sensitivity, if any, due to composite resin use, is minimal and brief.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES?

After receiving a composite, a patient may experience post-operative sensitivity. Also, the shade of the composite can change slightly if there is frequent or prolonged exposure to drinks, tea, coffee, or other staining foods like curry. The dentist can put a clear plastic coating over the composite to prevent the colour from changing if a patient is particularly concerned about tooth colour.

Composites tend to wear out sooner than silver fillings in larger cavities, although they hold up as well in small cavities.

HOW SHOULD I CARE FOR TEETH WITH FILLINGS?

Ultimately, the best dental filling is no dental filling. Prevention is the best medicine.

To maintain fillings, you should follow good oral hygiene: visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings, brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash at least once daily.

If your dentist suspects that a filling might be cracked or is “leaking” — when the sides of the filling don’t fit tightly against the tooth, this allows debris and saliva to seep down between the filling and the tooth, which can lead to decay — he or she will take X-rays to assess the situation.

If your tooth is extremely sensitive, if you feel a sharp edge, if you notice a crack in the filling, or if a piece of the filling is missing, call your dentist for an appointment.

Dr Sharon Robinson DDS has offices at the Dental Place Cosmetix Spa located at Shop #5, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10. Dr Robinson is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica, School of Oral Health Sciences. She may be contacted at 630-4710 or visit the website www.dentalplace4u.com.