Dental patients with chipped or broken teeth have more options for tooth repair than in the past, such as the use of composite fillings. These fillings can not only restore a tooth but also prevent the need for extraction, which can leave gaps in the smile and cause the remaining teeth to shift. They can also provide a natural-looking repair when compared with other filling materials, resulting in a healthy, uniform smile.
As the name suggests, composite fillings are made from a mix of materials that dentists can use to either fill cavities or repair broken and chipped teeth. The composite includes a variety of ingredients, including:
When mixed, the composite material closely matches the color of tooth enamel, giving the repair a natural appearance when compared to fillings or bonding material made of metal amalgam containing gold, silver, or mercury. Composite material is also versatile enough to repair a variety of dental issues, giving dentists and their patients more choices when attempting to save a tooth.
A chipped tooth can cause its owner discomfort and detract from his or her smile if the tooth in question is visible. This type of damage can also weaken the rest of the enamel and cause further issues over time, such as an increased chance of tooth decay. To repair the tooth using a composite filling, a dentist will treat the edge of the chip so the composite adheres fully and then shape it to match the rest of the tooth. Once the dentist hardens the resin with an ultraviolet lighting tool, the repair is complete and should last for years with proper care.
A broken tooth can occur in several ways, from biting down on hard candy or ice to a sports injury, but dentists can use composite fillings to repair this painful issue. Rather than extracting a broken tooth, composite material is used to fill the area so dentists can shape it properly and match the shade of the rest of the damaged tooth. This is especially helpful when the broken tooth has jagged edges that may affect the tongue or leave sores on the insides of the mouth.
While a composite filling can make a chipped or broken tooth repair appear more natural, this is not the only advantage. The bonding ability of the resin can also make a repair simpler for both dentists and their patients, which can make those who become nervous about dental procedures feel more comfortable. These types of repairs also only require occasional dental inspection and cleanings, which dentists can perform during regular cleanings.
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While many incidents can lead to broken or chipped teeth, dental patients who chose composite material as a means of repair may feel more confident because of its natural appearance. From small chips to larger breaks, fillings made from composite material can restore almost any smile.
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