What is Composite?
They are materials that do not have a homogeneous structure and consist of different types of materials. These materials include color-determining agents, light-sensitive hardeners, fillers, agents that increase wear resistance or balance elasticity.
In fact, the birth of composite materials was especially with the construction sector, where they were placed on similar chemical grounds. It is very well known that in ancient times, the Chinese, Israelis and Egyptians mixed straw into the mortar to increase the strength of adobe and bricks. In addition, iron-reinforced concrete has been used as a standard building material for decades. However, the use of glass fiber with various organic matrix materials has opened a new era in the use of composite materials.
In the 1960s, it was used only in front teeth. However, with the development of the material today, they can be successfully applied to the back teeth as a filling material that is resistant to chewing pressure and wears less.
Why is it used?
Composite filling is among the easiest and cheapest cosmetic procedures. The composite resin used in the filling can be shaped and polished to fit the teeth it surrounds. Composite fillings are used to correct the appearance of discolored or broken work, to close the gaps between teeth, to make teeth look longer or to change the shape or color of teeth, and sometimes to protect the root exposed as a result of gum recession or as an alternative to amalgam fillings.
How is it applied?
First of all, if there are existing cavities, they are cleaned, root canal treatments are performed if necessary, and if there is a fallen or broken filling, correction procedures are performed. Then, the necessary medications are placed at the base of the tooth. Then, your dentist uses the color scale to select the composite resin that is suitable for your tooth color. After selecting the appropriate color, the tooth surface is slightly abraded to roughen it (this is usually done with special etching agents). A substance that will help the composite filling adhere (bonding agent) is applied to the tooth and irradiated.
The tooth-colored paste-like resin is applied layer by layer into the cavity and shaped. This substance is then hardened with a light device. After the filling material has hardened, the height is adjusted with burs and the final shape is given. It is then polished until it shines evenly like the other surfaces of the tooth surface. The process takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour to complete. If more than one tooth is to be treated, you may need several appointments.
After
Tea, coffee, cigarettes and other substances can stain the filling material. To prevent or minimize stains, it is necessary to avoid staining foods for the first 48 hours after any composite procedure. In addition, brush your teeth frequently and have your teeth cleaned regularly.
The resin used in composite fillings is not as strong as natural teeth. The material can be damaged by traumas such as nail biting, ice, bone or pencil biting, and teeth grinding. The life of the filling is usually 5-10 years, after which it can be repaired or restored. In fact, the life of the filling application depends on your oral habits and the size of the filling. If you notice sharp edges on your teeth after the composite filling is made, or if your tooth feels strange or “abnormal” when you bite it, or if the filling breaks or falls out, call your dentist without delay.
Advantages
- The biggest advantage of composite fillings is that they are aesthetic (matching the tooth color).
- Their bonding is especially chemical, which provides better retention.
- Since the expansion and contraction coefficients are close to the tooth, it makes it easier to prevent secondary caries.
- They can be polished immediately after the filling is made.
- As with amalgam, there is no restriction such as not eating for 2 hours after the filling is made. They can function (eat, drink) after the filling is made.
- They can be used not only for restoring caries, but also for cosmetic procedures by changing the color and shape of the teeth (direct laminate veneer).
Disadvantages
- Composite fillings are applied layer by layer and hardened with a special light. Therefore, it takes longer and is more difficult to make than amalgam.
- Its price is more expensive than amalgam.
- Although composite fillings have recently become quite durable, they are not as hard as amalgam.
- Color change can be seen over time (especially in those without light and when oral hygiene is not taken into account). The food and drinks consumed are also of great importance.
