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If you're embarrassed about your smile because of decayed, disfigured,
or discolored teeth, you may be a good candidate for composite resins.
A composite resin is simply a silicon dioxide-filled tooth-colored
plastic mixture that can restore teeth to an attractive, healthy state.
Composite resins represent several advantages to the patient compared
with traditional silver fillings. First, your dentist is able to blend
composite shades and shapes so as to match the original teeth nearly
perfectly. Second, the tooth-composite bond actually serves to support
the remaining tooth structure, preventing breakage and providing insulation
against temperature changes. Third, average-sized and small-sized composites
have demonstrated similar duration to silver fillings--seven to ten
years.
Finally, resin placement is simple. Depending on the size of
the filling and location of the composite, it may require as little
as 10 to 20 minutes
longer than what's needed for a traditional silver filling. Although
some patients notice a bit of post-placement sensitivity, this is temporary.
The only caution we usually mention is that coffee, tea, and other
staining types of foods and beverages may discolor your composites unless
you
ask to have them coated with a clear plastic sealant.
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