The term composite filling in layman’s terms is a white filling.
Composition: A mixture of plastic and fine glass particles.
Longevity: At least five years if you have developed great oral hygiene habits and see your dentist and hygienist regularly.
Cost: More than amalgam, but are very reasonable.
Advantages:
- Your fillings will match your tooth color.
- A filling can be completed in one visit.
- Composite fillings bond directly to your tooth.
- Less drilling is required to prepare your tooth for a composite filling. This is because your dentist does not have to shape the space as much for the filling to be held securely in place.
Disadvantages:
- Composite resins have become stronger and more resistant to wear, though it is still not clear if they are strong enough to last as long as amalgam fillings under the constant pressure of chewing.
- Teeth are often sensitive after having had a composite resin placed. This sensitivity will subside over time, and usually lasts longer than after having an amalgam filling placed.
- These fillings take more time to place which contributes to the higher cost, when comparing to amalgam fillings.
