What is Composite Filling?
Composite (inlay-onlay) filling is an aesthetic filling method used to repair decayed or damaged teeth. This method is often preferred, especially for back teeth (partial tooth loss or caries).
Composite fillings have been used by dentists for many years because they are compatible with tooth color. Composite materials, whose durability has been increased with advances in technology, can be safely applied to the posterior teeth. The composite filling placed in the cavity in the patient’s mouth is hardened and polished by irradiation and the treatment is completed in the same session.
Aesthetic and functional treatments can be applied to decayed tooth tissues, discolored, worn and gapped teeth in a single session using tooth-colored composite filling materials.
With composite fillings, gaps (diastemas) in the front teeth that are not aesthetically pleasing can be closed to achieve a natural appearance. The advantages of doing this procedure include that it is cheaper and does not cause any loss of material in the dental tissues.
Let’s talk about composite inlay-onlay fillings…
What is Composite Inlay Filling?
Composite inlay; It is a special piece of composite material placed on the chewing surface of the tooth. It is generally a type of filling that fits perfectly into the inside of the tooth and is prepared in a laboratory environment.
After cleaning the decay, the dentist takes a mold of the tooth and inlay fillings are prepared in the laboratory and then placed on the tooth.
What is Composite Onlay Filling?
Composite onlays are fillings that cover both the chewing surface and side surfaces of the tooth. That is, it is used to repair a larger part of the tooth.
The dentist cleans the decay depending on the condition of the tooth and then takes a mold for the onlay. The onlay, prepared in a laboratory environment using this mold, is then glued to the tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Composite Fillings
What is composite filling?
Composite filling is an aesthetic filling material used to repair tooth decay or damage.
What is inlay filling?
Inlay filling is a special restoration method that is placed inside the tooth and designed to resemble the natural structure of the tooth.
What is onlay filling?
Onlay fillings are a special type of filling designed to cover both the chewing surface (arrow) and side surfaces of the tooth.
What are the advantages of composite inlay-onlay fillings?
Composite fillings provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance because they can be made in natural tooth color. They are durable and long-lasting because they provide good adhesion. It preserves the natural structure of the tooth, allowing repair with minimal tissue loss.
What are the ingredients of composite fillings?
Composite fillings; It is obtained from a mixture of resin, glass and ceramic particles, colorants and some special agents.
How long does composite filling last?
Composite fillings can last an average of 5-10 years. If there are no problems such as clenching or grinding, this period may extend depending on the technique applied by the dentist, the person’s oral hygiene, healthy teeth and eating habits.
Will the composite filling fall out?
Composite fillings may wear out faster and wear out more easily due to reasons such as gum problems, teeth clenching and grinding. The biggest reason why fillings fall out is consuming very cold, hot, hard foods and drinks.