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Composite resin - the white dental filling material

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Written By: Dr Anitha Anchan | Updated : August 6, 2013 12:21 PM IST

Composite resin is the most widely used tooth coloured filling material. The tooth is etched with acid before placing the filling in layers. Each layer of filling is typically hardened using a specialized light. Composite filling is available in a wide range of tooth colours. It may last for five to seven years. The filling may cost between Rs 600 - 1000. Composite veneers may cost between Rs 2000 3000.

Used for:

Well suited for filling front teeth or visible parts of teeth. It is used in direct fillings, in-lays and crowns.

Advantages:

  • Since it is a tooth coloured material, the filling is nearly unnoticeable.
  • Composite forms chemical bonding with the tooth structure and strengthens it.

Disadvantages:

  • Less strong and durable than silver amalgam, gold or porcelain fillings.
  • More prone to wear and discolouration when compared to porcelain.
  • With time, the filling shrinks and may pull away from the tooth leading to leakage which, if not corrected, may cause secondary cavities.

Photo source: www.simivalleysdentist.com