Composite resin is a cement-like material that dentists employ in many different dental procedures. In fact, many people have resin in their smiles already and do not know it. This material starts off malleable which makes it easy to work with and versatile, but it can also harden to provide reliable restorative effects for a tooth.
A dentist can illustrate how they utilize this material when you meet with them for a dental consultation. But you can feel more confident introducing this material to your smile when you know more about its benefits. Explore three ways your dentist can use composite resin in your oral healthcare when you read on.
Modern Dental Fillings
Dental fillings refer to the fixtures dentists use to restore a tooth’s health, appearance, and function after treating a cavity. In the past, dentists worked with metal alloys to fill holes in a patient’s tooth caused by decay. But modern dental patients can experience longer-lasting and more aesthetically appealing results with composite resin fillings.
The dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth and then mold the resin to the tooth to reshape its structure. Then they cure it, making it harden and create a seal over this vulnerable part of the tooth. It can stay in place for about ten years when you continue good oral habits.
The durable material allows you to continue your usual oral functions after this treatment. Plus, many people appreciate that the color of resin blends well with the natural teeth for a beautiful finish.
Cosmetic Tooth Bonding
Dentists can also use composite resin as part of a cosmetic dental treatment called tooth bonding. The procedure involves preparing affected teeth and then applying resin to them, molding it according to a patient’s smile aesthetic goals.
This versatile treatment can brighten and even out a patient’s tooth color, fix small cracks or chips in the teeth, close gaps between teeth, and reshape irregular parts of a smile. You can enjoy smile enhancement for three to ten years with dental bonding, but you should note that bonding might stain if you are not careful. Consult with your dentist to maintain the beautiful results of this resin-based treatment.
Dental Adhesive
While highly effective on its own, dentists also employ composite resin as a part of other dental procedures. As the resin hardens, it can function like cement, making it a reliable adhesive in many types of dental work.
For instance, a dentist will use composite resin bonding when giving a patient porcelain veneers. The resin helps attach these caps to the front of the teeth, where they can stay in place for fifteen years.
This way, a patient can feel confident in the appearance of their fixtures as well as their function. Get the dental care you need for the look and feel of your smile by reaching out to your dentist for an appointment today.