Dentistry has evolved to better meet patient needs and preferences without sacrificing oral health benefits. One of these advances in dental technology is the usage of composite resin. This synthetic bonding material is initially malleable, but cement-like when it sets. Composite resin hardens and feels like tooth enamel, providing a secure fit on a patient’s teeth.
The versatility and durability of resin makes it a valuable tool in many types of dental care procedures. But you may feel more comfortable introducing it to your mouth when you know more about its benefits. Check out three of the many ways a dentist can use composite resin to achieve your cosmetic and oral health goals.
Modern Dental Fillings
Many of us will develop a cavity, an early form of tooth decay, at some point in our lives. Decay forms when natural oral bacteria eat away at weak spots in the tooth enamel. When decay creates a hole in the tooth’s surface, this is a cavity.
Your dentist can treat a cavity by drilling away the damaged part of the tooth during a dental procedure. Then he fills the resulting hole to restore the tooth’s structure. Dentists used to employ metal alloys for dental fillings to restore a tooth after cavity treatment. But now, dentists use composite resin fillings more often.
The malleable resin easily fits into the tooth. Then the dentist hardens it to provide effective protection for this vulnerable area. Dental bonding will seal it to prevent further harm to the tooth in this spot.
Plus, dental patients appreciate the subtle appearance of a composite resin filling. Dentists can match the filling’s color to your natural tooth for a more aesthetically appealing finish. White fillings merge seamlessly into your mouth.
Cosmetic Tooth Bonding
Dentists can use composite resin for cosmetic purposes, such as a tooth bonding treatment. We recommend tooth bonding for patients who want to fix minor aesthetic issues in their smiles. Issues such as chips, cracks, stains, gaps between teeth, and other irregularities.
A dentist will apply the resin where needed, according to the patient’s smile aesthetic goals. It can close gaps between teeth, make teeth more regular in shape, and cover minor tooth breakage as well as stubborn tooth stains.
The resin’s color ensures a look that enhances your smile’s appearance while also achieving a natural finish. Composite resin materials are subject to staining. So pay attention to the substances you consume to maximize the aesthetic benefits of this treatment.
Dental Adhesive
Composite resin also makes for a great adhesive that can pair well with other types of dental treatments. The dentist can apply resin to the surface of the tooth and then attach a fixture to the teeth atop the resin coating. Then when the resin hardens, it securely keeps the fixture in place.
For instance, dentists will use resin bonding during a porcelain veneer treatment. Veneers can stay in place for fifteen years when bonded securely to the front of the teeth. Learn more about the advantages of composite resin by talking to your local cosmetic dentist. Visit our Towson dental practice for cosmetic dental treatments using composite bonding for the best results.