Composite Filling

Composite fillings are a type of filling material used in the treatment of tooth decay. Composite fillings consist of a mixture of several different materials and are shaped to match the tooth color, giving an appearance similar to the natural structure of the tooth. This filling material can be used by dentists to repair cracked, broken or worn teeth as well as tooth decay. Another area of use of composite fillings is aesthetic dentistry, that is, they are frequently used to regulate the shape and color of teeth in smile design.

Advantages of Composite Fillings

Aesthetic Appearance: One of the biggest advantages of composite fillings is that they provide a much more aesthetic appearance than other filling materials. Thanks to the colors of these fillings similar to the natural tooth color, the filling area on the teeth becomes almost unnoticeable. Thus, the natural appearance of the teeth is preserved.

Reduced Tooth Damage: Composite fillings, when used to treat tooth decay, require removal of only the damaged part of the tooth. This helps preserve intact tooth tissue, unlike traditional fillings.

Less Risk of Infection: Application of composite fillings involves cleaning the decayed area of the tooth. This process reduces the risk of bacteria and infection in the gums.

Shorter Treatment Time: Traditional fillers require long treatment times due to their application time. However, composite fillings can be applied in a single session and therefore offer a shorter treatment period.

Heat Sensitivity: Since composite fillings are sensitive to heat, they can reduce the sensitivity of the teeth.

Durability: Composite fillings are long-lasting when cared for correctly. These fillings can withstand great pressure or chewing force in the mouth and also have a low risk of cracking and breaking.

Economical: Composite fillings are more affordable than other dental treatments. This may be another reason for many people to choose these fillings.

Disadvantages of Composite Fillings

Lifespan: Composite fillings are less durable and have a shorter lifespan compared to amalgam fillings. Therefore, fillings may need to be changed more frequently.

Color change: The colors of composite fillings may change or darken over time. Therefore, the filling color may not match the tooth color and an aesthetic problem may occur.

Price: Composite fillings take longer and are more expensive to make than other fillings.

Hardening process: Composite fillings are hardened using a special light source. This process may take several minutes for the filling to fully harden. For this reason, it is not recommended to put pressure or chew on the filling during the hardening process.

Sensitivity: During the application of composite fillings, temporary sensitivity may occur in the teeth after the procedure. This sensitivity is usually short-term and slightly temporary.

Allergic reactions: In rare cases, allergic reactions to composite fillings may occur. Therefore, it is recommended to perform allergic tests before applying the filler.

Application Process of Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are a popular filling material that dentists use to treat tooth decay. These fillings are available in colors close to the natural colors of the teeth and provide an aesthetic appearance. The application process of composite fillings is as follows:

Preparation: The dentist cleans and prepares the tooth where the filling will be applied. The area around the tooth is numbed with anesthesia.

Caries Removal: The dentist cleans and prepares the decayed part of the tooth. This process is a necessary step for the filling to adhere better.

Application of Bonding Agent: The dentist applies a special bonding agent to ensure that the filling adheres to the tooth. This agent prepares the surface of the tooth to allow the filling to adhere to the tooth.

Application of Composite Filling: After the bonding agent is applied, composite filling material is applied. The dentist carefully applies the filling and corrects the shape and size of the tooth.

Shaping: After the composite filling is applied, the dentist shapes the filling in accordance with the natural tooth shape.

Hardening: The filler is hardened using a special light source.

Final Check: The dentist makes a final check to make sure that the filling in the tooth has been applied and shaped correctly.

Composite filling application can usually be completed in a single appointment and is a minimally invasive method to preserve the original structure of the tooth. Dentists therefore often recommend composite fillings as an aesthetically pleasing solution.