Patient Library

Composite Resins

~Restoring shape, color & strength to your smile

When teeth are decayed, disfigured, or discolored, they can be restored to an attractive, healthy state by application of a composite resin. A composite resin is a silicon dioxide-filled tooth-colored plastic mixture used by dentists for improving teeth both structurally and cosmetically. Generally, resin placement requires four simple steps: preparation, layering, shaping, and polishing.

Simple Procedure

First, the teeth to be filled are prepared: any decayed area is drilled out, and all surfaces are cleaned with a specialized cleaning agent. Next, Dr. _______ layers the composite onto the teeth, hardening each layer with a special light. When the layering process is finished, Dr. _______ carefully works with the composite, shaping it to fit the tooth and mimic the original dentition. He then polishes it, preventing staining and early wear. Depending on the size of the filling and location of the composite, this placement process may require 10 to 20 minutes longer than what's needed for a traditional silver filling.

Shapes, Shades & Performance

There are several advantages to the patient in receiving composite resins as opposed to traditional silver fillings. First, Dr. _______ is an expert craftsman and as such is able to precisely blend composite shades and shapes so as to match the original teeth nearly perfectly. Further, the bond formed between the tooth and the composite actually serves to support to the remaining tooth structure, preventing breakage and providing insulation against temperature changes. Finally, average- and small-sized composites have been shown to last as long as silver fillings--seven to ten years.

Sensitivity, Stains & Prices

Occasionally, patients experience post-placement sensitivity after receiving their composite(s). However, this will generally pass. Also, the composite shade may darken slightly from tea, coffee or other staining types of foods and beverages. However, if the patient anticipates this being a problem, Dr. _______ can prevent it by placing a clear plastic coating over the composite. A final consideration may be cost: composites typically run one-and-a-half to two times the price of a traditional silver filling, with insurance covering up to the price of the silver filling and the patient paying the difference. However, insurance companies will likely increase coverage as composites continue to improve.

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