Cavities and small fractures leave many teeth with defects that progress over time if untreated. In the past, metal restorations served a need but left teeth discolored and strained from the wedging effect of the metal. Today, tooth-colored composites blending into tooth structure provide an excellent option for restoring defects. Composites can often be placed in thinner layers than metal, preserving more of the natural tooth.
Composites serve both functional and aesthetic roles, often at the same time. For example, a cavity invading the front of a tooth along the gum line may be visible in your smile. By gently cleaning out the soft, discolored area, the decay ceases to destroy healthy mineral surfaces. When a composite shade matching the tooth is sculpted into place, the tooth looks better than ever.
Composites contain a mix of liquid resin embedded with finely ground glass particles. After being molded against the conditioned tooth structure, blue light applied directly to the composite sets it within seconds. After being shaped and polished to a high shine the restoration is practically invisible, strong, smooth, and conservative.