What Are the Benefits of Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings can be hugely helpful in protecting teeth that may have been damaged from decay, cavities, and accidents. The composite filling strengthens the tooth and stops the tooth from decaying or cracking anymore.
Composite fillings are now preferred by many over traditional metal amalgam fillings not only for their more natural look but because they are non-toxic. The versatile nature of composite filling material means it can be used for a variety of dental issues. Composite fillings are made from plastic resin that is moldable and can be leveraged to treat cavities, repair cracks in teeth, or build up a tooth that has been worn down too much.
Composite fillings can sometimes be utilized instead of crowns, which can be easier and more cost-effective. The composite resin material also bonds easily to teeth, which means less tooth enamel needs to be removed in preparation for the new filling (compared to metal amalgams or veneers).
How Long Will Composite Fillings Last?
Composite fillings have an average lifespan of between 5 and 7 years, or even longer if very well-maintained. While the old-school metal amalgam fillings can last a little longer than composite fillings, the benefits of composite far outweigh the minor inconvenience of having them fixed once or twice a decade.