Tooth coloured (composite) Fillings
A composite resin is a tooth coloured plastic mixture filled with glass (silicon dioxide) that can be moulded to the exact shape of the tooth and set using a visible blue light, they are life-like and long lasting.
Introduced in the 1960's, dental composites were confined to the front teeth because they were not strong enough to withstand the pressure and wear generated by the back teeth. Since then, composite materials have been significantly improved and can be successfully placed in the back teeth as well.
Composites are not only used for restoring decay, but are also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the colour of the teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth.
Today, composite fillings are the most popular cosmetic dental procedure. They do have some limitiations regarding size and position in the mouth which we will discuss with you. It should also be borne in mind that cosmetic fillings usually last 4-5years whereas amalgam can last a lot longer.
Many people decide to switch to white fillings when older style amalgams need replacing due to wear and tear. However, if you decide to have dark or discolored fillings that are visible when smiling or laughing, you may decide to change them for cosmetic reasons.
The latest white fillings are available in a wide range of colors and translucencies, enabling a dentist to closely match the colour of your teeth and give them a natural and pleasant appearance.
We also offer porcelain, ceramic, fillings which are called inlays or onlays for patients who do not want amalgam fillings when composite fillings are not suitable.
Porcelain is now becoming the material of choice because of its strength and potential to match the natural colour of your tooth. It is bonded to your tooth with a thin layer of composite resin and is hard wearing.
An Inlay is similiar to a filling and lies inside the cusp tips of the tooth. They are custom made to fit the prepared cavity and are then bonded into place. An Onlay is a more extensive restoration that covers one or more cusps of a tooth. Onlays are indicated in situations where a substantial reconstruction is required. However, more of the tooth structure can be conserved compared to the placement of a crown. Both inlays and onlays can be made with composite or porcelain.