Composite Resins

~Restoring shape, color & strength to your smile

When teeth are decayed, disfigured, or discolored, they can be restored to an attractive, healthy state by application of a composite resin. A composite resin is a complex tooth-colored plastic mixture used by dentists for improving teeth both structurally and cosmetically. Generally, resin placement requires four steps: preparation, layering, shaping, and polishing.

Simple Procedure

First, the teeth to be filled are prepared: any decayed area is removed, and all surfaces are cleaned with a specialized cleaning agent. Next, Dr. Ross layers the composite onto the teeth, hardening each layer with a special light. When the layering process is finished, Dr. Ross 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. And here's the amazing thing:  These high tech materials are hardened by exposure to a brght light of a particular frequency, so they are ready to use immediately.  No waiting.  Go out and have lunch right from the office!

Shapes, Shades & Performance

There are several advantages to the patient in receiving composite resins as opposed to old-fashioned silver fillings. First, Dr. Ross 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. Further, the bond formed between the tooth and the composite actually serves to support to the remaining tooth structure, preventing breakage and providing insulation against temperature changes. Finally, average- and small-sized composites have been shown to last as long as silver fillings--seven to ten years, or even more.

Sensitivity, Stains and Size

Rarely, patients experience post-placement sensitivity after receiving their composite(s). This will generally disappear in a day or two. Also, the composite shade may darken slightly from tea, coffee or other staining types of foods and beverages. However, if the patient anticipates this being a problem, Dr. Ross can prevent it by placing a clear plastic coating over the composite.

Size matters.  If the damage to your tooth is large, composite resin is used differenly (inlays and onlays).  But that;'s a different subject.

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