Bonding

Composites, or composite bonding, also known as, white fillings or tooth colored fillings, are used for their esthetic look. Composites are made from plastic and glass particles. A color, or shade, is chosen that will closely match and blend in naturally with the tooth color. These fillings are primarily used in front or anterior teeth. They can also be used for some back, or posterior, teeth which need small to midsized fillings that can withstand moderate chewing force.

Composites are made from softer, less durable material causing them to wear faster than the silver, metal amalgam fillings, and therefore may need to be replaced more often than amalgams. The filling material is applied using a series of cleansing and bonding, or gluing, agents to the tooth surface. Once the composite is placed on the tooth it is hardened, or cured, by using an ultra violet light for several seconds which bonds them solidly to the tooth. Once the curing is completed the filling is ready to chew on immediately, unlike the amalgam filling which requires forty five minutes to one hour to hard set.

Some insurance plans do not cover composite fillings due to their cost. Composite fillings require a little more time and material to place and consequently cost a more than an amalgam filling.

Nonetheless, due to their superior cosmetic qualities, patients request them more often than amalgams or gold fillings. As a result of this demand, more insurance companies are covering these fillings.

Composite Bonding

Bonding is an alternative to veneers, and can be used as a restorative procedure for teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored or misarranged.

How does it work?

The tooth is prepared for the procedure by lightly etching the surface and applying a bonding liquid. Once the liquid sets, a plastic resin is applied and sculpted into the desired shape by the dentist. Once set, the resin is trimmed, smoothed and polished to a natural appearance.

Considerations

The bonding procedure can often be completed in a single office visit, and can improve the appearance of a tooth significantly. However, since the plastic resin used is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel, it is more likely to stain, chip or break than natural teeth. Bonding typically lasts three to five years before need of repair.