Newsletter
A majority of us have existing amalgam (silver) restorations in our mouths that have provided us with many years of service. However, with time, these amalgam restorations can wear around the edges causing the restoration to fracture, sometimes breaking natural tooth structure as well.
Amalgam restorations can also wear around the edges or pull away from surrounding tooth enamel allowing new decay to form between the restoration and tooth structure. This can cause deeper cavities to form around and under the existing restoration.
A great solution to filling a decayed tooth or replacing an existing amalgam restoration may be placing a composite resin filling. Composite fillings are made from tooth-colored materials that restore the natural appearance of a decayed or previously filled tooth.
If a cavity is present, the dentist will removed the decay and make a small preparation on the tooth structure. He will then place the tooth colored restoration in the cavity prep which involves bonding a composite resin material that has been matched to the color of your tooth. The composite material is cured with a special light that causes the material to chemically harden.
A composite filling may be placed by either the dentist or an expanded function hygienist that has been trained and board certified to place restorations. Composite resins allow patients that need restorations to experience the benefit of a more natural looking smile while improving the overall health of your mouth.
