Composite dental fillings are wonderful and when artisticly done, they often look just like natural tooth structure. In the 1980's composite filling was not strong enough to be used in back teeth. At the same time, the controversy about whether mercury tooth filling was dangerous began to rage and many patients became uncomfortable with dental materials that contained mercury. Dental research progressed and tooth colored dental materials were improved so many dentists began limiting themselves strictly to mercury free materials. As a matter of fact, several countries also banned the use of mercury containing dental amalgam.

          Composite dental fillings have the advantage of looking like natural tooth material. However, they contract when they are hardened and so this material has to be layered into the tooth to avoid problems. The primary problem that can occur is tooth sensitivity due to sucking on the nerves in the dentinal tubules. A previously normal tooth can be come very sensitive to hot and cold and/or biting pressures if the material is placed improperly. Placing a flowable composite resin on the bottom of the filling helps seal the dentin and avoid this problem.

          Indirect composite dental fillings are another option. In this technique, the teeth are prepared and an impression is taken of the preparations. A rubber model is made and the white restorations are constructed on the model. Since the model is exactly the same as the actual teeth, the restorations made on the model fit the teeth exactly. Indirect restorations are harder than direct composites and they can be better sculpted to look more natural. They are then inserted into the previously prepared teeth.

           The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. They know that having a beautiful and natural looking smile can greatly contribute to a feeling of well being. Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky and Dr. Jeffrey Stephen Smith both use composite dental fillings to create gorgeous smiles. If you are interested in speaking with an Atlanta Cosmetic Dentist about your dental filling options and your smile, call 404-874-7428 to schedule a free cosmetic consultation.