For a Clean, Strong Smile
If you have decayed, disfigured, or discolored teeth, we can restore
them to an attractive, healthy state by applying a composite resin. A
composite resin is a silicon dioxide-filled tooth-colored ceramic mixture
that Dr. Carano uses to improve teeth both structurally and cosmetically.
Generally, resin placement requires four simple steps: preparation, layering,
shaping, and polishing.
Preparing, Layering, & Shaping
Once we've identified the teeth that need to be filled, we simply prepare
them by drilling out any decay and cleaning all surfaces with a specialized
cleaning agent. Next, Dr. Carano layers the composite onto the teeth,
hardening each layer with a special light. When the layering process is
finished, Dr. Carano carefully works with the composite, shaping it to
fit the tooth and mimic the original dentition. He then polishes it, preventing
staining and early wear. Depending on the size of the filling and location
of the composite, this placement process may require 10 to 20 minutes
longer than what's needed for a traditional silver filling.
Stress, Strain, & Decay
You may not realize it, but each bite you take puts up to 900 pounds of
pressure per square inch on the surface of that tooth. Over the years,
this kind of pressure can easily cause silver amalgam fillings to change
their shape and contour, crack, and possibly create fractures in the tooth
as well. Then, decay can creep into the fracture lines and under the loosened
filling as well. However, the bond formed between the tooth and a composite
resin isn't susceptible to these problems. In fact, it's such a strong
bond that the new material actually lends strength to that tooth for the
rest of its life, preventing breakage and providing temperature change
insulation.
Shapes, Shades & Endurance
There are other important advantages to receiving composite resins as
opposed to traditional silver fillings. Dr. Carano is an expert craftsman
and as such is able to precisely blend composite shades and shapes so
as to match the original teeth nearly perfectly. So your smile is actually
improved, rather than compromised. Finally, average- and small-sized composites
have been shown to last as long as silver fillings--seven to ten years.
Sensitivity, Stains & Prices
Occasionally, patients experience post-placement sensitivity after receiving
their composite(s). However, this will generally pass. Also, the composite
shade may darken slightly from tea, coffee or other staining types of
foods and beverages. However, if you anticipate this being a problem,
Dr. Carano can prevent it by placing a clear plastic coating over the
composite. A final consideration may be cost: composites typically run
one-and-a-half to two times the price of a traditional silver filling,
with insurance covering up to the price of the silver filling and you
being responsible for the difference. However, insurance companies will
likely increase coverage as composites continue to improve.
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