Composite fillings, or amalgam, are a composite of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. It is composed of two metals, with the rest being inert powder material. When this metal alloy is heated and placed in a pressurized chamber, it fuses together to form a ceramic-like amalgam. The process by which this occurs makes the composite filling stronger.
You can consult a family dentist in Richmond, IN, if you are interested in getting a composite filling. Most family dentists will be able to provide you with more information about this procedure.
Here are 5 reasons for you to consider getting composite fillings.
- Chipped teeth
The first reason to get composite fillings is if you have chipped teeth. This is because the chips can be filled without removing much enamel. Composite fillings can be placed on the tooth to restore the gap in your smile, and the tooth will look more natural.
- Closing space between two teeth
Because composite fillings can be placed between teeth, you may want to consider getting a composite filling if you have a space between two of your teeth that cannot be filled by a tooth-colored filling. If the gap is more than 3mm, then it is better to get a crown.
- Cracked or broken teeth
In many cases, teeth that are cracked or broken cannot be repaired by the filling material used. However, composite fillings can be used to repair these types of teeth. Composite fillings are especially useful because they do not require removal of the teeth’s structure, nor do they affect the healthy tooth’s structure.
- Decayed teeth
Composite fillings can be placed on the teeth that have been severely decayed. In this case, removing all of the tooth decay is not needed because a part of the tooth might remain.
- Impacted wisdom teeth
If you have impacted wisdom teeth, then composite fillings are usually recommended to prevent further damage to your gums and teeth. Composite fillings will also help prevent damage caused by plaque build-up and other acids that may form in the gum line around your impacted wisdom tooth.
- Worn teeth
If you have worn down your teeth to the point that they are no longer suitable for a veneer or crown, then composite fillings may be an option for you. Composite fillings can also correct uneven surfaces on your teeth and make them properly shaped for a veneer or crown. In fact, composite fillings are preferred over amalgam fillings because of the latter’s mercury content and environmental hazards.
