What Are Composite Fillings?
A dental filling is needed when a tooth is damaged by decay. After removing the decay, we can restore the tooth with a variety of materials, including:
- Amalgam (silver fillings)
- Porcelain
- Composite resin
Each filling material has a unique set of properties and advantages. Composite fillings are the go-to for most restorative and cosmetic dentists in Tampa because it’s one of the most affordable, safe, and longest-lasting options.
Amalgam fillings contain mercury, which can leak into the bloodstream and cause health problems. It was the most common filling material for years because it was durable, strong, and affordable. However, due to health concerns and aesthetics, dentists quickly moved to composite resin when it became available.
Porcelain fillings are long-lasting and beautiful but expensive, often costing nearly as much as a dental crown. Thankfully, composite resin comes in many shades, so your Tampa dentist can match the shade of your natural tooth just as well with composite as they can with porcelain.
The Benefits of Composite Fillings in Tampa
Following are the main benefits of composite fillings and why they are far and away a preferable option to traditional silver fillings. Composite fillings are:
Durable
Composite fillings don’t expand and contract with temperature changes (like amalgam). This means they’ll last longer and are less likely to experience damage. Composite also bonds directly to the tooth, enforcing it and adding strength.
Discreet
Because composite resin is tooth-colored, no one will ever know you’ve had a filling.
Versatile
Composite filling material can be used to restore teeth that have deep dental decay. It can also be used to perform cosmetic procedures to repair cracks and chips in the teeth. Because this material doesn’t irritate the gum tissue, it’s an excellent option for a variety of procedures.
