What Are Composite Fillings Made of?

If you have dental cavities, chipped teeth, teeth cracks, or worn-down teeth from bruxism, then your dentist may recommend composite fillings to restore the health and appearance of your teeth. Composite fillings are made of safe materials and can last for many years with proper care and regular dental check-ups. 

A detailed review of the composite filling materials

Composite fillings, also called tooth-colored dental fillings, are made of materials that closely match the color shade of natural teeth. Understanding how they are made and how they compare to the alternatives can help patients decide on the right treatment option for their needs.

The compounds used to make composite fillings

Composite fillings are made using plastic and ceramic compounds. These provide adequate strength to withstand daily pressure from chewing and preserve the natural shade of teeth, so the filling is indistinguishable from the natural tooth. However, the plastic and ceramic materials are not as strong as amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are completely safe to use and are relatively affordable compared to alternative solutions. 

Reasons to consider composite fillings

Dentists may recommend composite fillings because of their natural appearance, hence their other name of “tooth-colored fillings.” Subsequently, they are often used for more visible teeth and to fill cavities on the visible surfaces of teeth. Although not as durable as amalgam fillings, they can still provide adequate protection and have the ability to withstand the daily pressures that teeth face for years. The best way to determine if composite fillings are appropriate for your needs is to discuss both composite fillings and amalgam fillings with a dentist. 

Why composite fillings may not work as well for molars

Composite fillings may not work as well when used to fill cavities on the chewing surfaces of molars. This is because these areas of teeth are subject to more pressure while chewing, and composite fillings do not offer the same level of strength and durability as amalgam fillings, which are made of metal alloy materials.

Issues that composite fillings can address

Composite fillings can treat a range of oral health concerns. The primary reason that composite fillings are used is to address dental cavities. However, they may also be recommended to treat chips, cracks, and teeth worn down by teeth grinding. 

Prevention of dental cavities

Composite fillings are ideal for restoring the health and appearance of a patient’s smile after cavities form. However, the best way to deal with dental cavities is through prevention. Be sure to brush regularly, limit the consumption of high-sugar foods and drinks, and visit the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. 

Speak with our dental team today to schedule a consultation

If you have damaged or decayed portions of a tooth (or multiple teeth) and want to learn more about how composite fillings can be used to restore the health and appearance of natural teeth, then contact our dental practice by phone or message. We can schedule a consultation and help you decide if composite fillings are right for you.

Request an appointment here: https://sonorandesertdentistry.com or call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at (480) 439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.

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