You already knew that white composite fillings looked good, but did you know they could actually be better for your teeth? It’s true. Here are 3 of the biggest reasons why you should consider a composite filling the next time you have a cavity:

#1 – They only require minimal tooth alteration

Some types of fillings have to be held in by a wedge shape that is created inside of the tooth. This is done by removing tooth structure that may not have had anything wrong with it in the first place. Composite tooth colored fillings are minimally invasive. That is, only the damaged part of the tooth needs to be removed. The material is then bonded directly to the remaining enamel and stays securely in place. This makes white fillings smaller and maximizes the amount of healthy tooth enamel that you still have.

#2 – They release fluoride

Fluoride minerals inside of the material are gradually released after the filling is placed. This process can last for an extended period of time. The result? Teeth that aren’t just free of a cavity, but teeth that are now stronger than they were when the filling was completed. Other types of fillings can get recurrent (repeat) decay around them, but composite fillings can go longer without this additional risk.

#3 – You’re essentially “re-building” your tooth

Because composite material fuses directly with tooth enamel, it doesn’t act like a patch on a pair of jeans. Rather, it’s like you’re re-building the tooth completely and giving it a brand new surface. Other types of fillings can’t bond directly to the tooth, and may be more susceptible to developing recurrent tooth decay around them.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Hye Park

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