Composite resin refers to malleable material that dentists will employ in several types of procedures. Resin is easy to mold where needed but can harden into a durable and reliable finish when cured with a special light.
It resembles the color of a tooth so that it provides a natural-looking appearance as well, minimizing disruption to the look of your smile. Based on these factors, dentists will commonly rely on this material, but you may wonder how. Read on to learn about three dental procedures that will employ composite resin to enhance your smile.
3 Dental Treatments Using Composite Resin
Cavity Fillings
A dental filling is part of a dentist’s treatment for a cavity. The dentist first drills away the decayed portion of the tooth, but this leaves a hole in the surface of the tooth. They must fill the hole to protect the vulnerable interior of the tooth.
Dentists used to rely on metal alloys for dental fillings, but now dentists tend to use composite resin for this treatment. The tooth-colored material appeals more to patients who do not want darker fixtures disrupting their smiles.
The resin proves effective too because it molds easily into the hole and hardens for lasting protection. You can anticipate this type of dental filling to remain in your tooth for about ten years.
Cosmetic Tooth Bonding
Teeth bonding refers to a type of cosmetic dental procedure in which a dentist uses composite resin to sculpt teeth to a patient’s smile aesthetic goals. The tooth-colored resin can make a tooth appear brighter, straighter, and more even. Its flexibility and attention to detail make this a popular option for patients seeking smile enhancement.
The affordable yet effective treatment begins with minute etching into the surface of the teeth to make it easier to adhere to the resin. Then the dentist applies the resin, molding it as needed to reshape the tooth. The dentist then cures it and polishes it for a beautiful and natural-looking finish.
Bonding will last for three to ten years with proper care and maintenance, though you can talk to your dentist about touch-up opportunities. The resin can stain if you are not careful, so follow your dentist’s aftercare guidelines to maximize cosmetic benefits.
Dental Cement
The properties of composite resin allow it to function as a cement, so dentists will also use it as an adhesive during certain dental procedures. For instance, dentists employ resin when securing porcelain veneers to teeth.
A dentist will build custom veneers per a patient’s cosmetic goals. Then they use resin and bonding to attach the caps to the front of the teeth. This creates a secure seal that keeps the veneers in place.
You can see a long-lasting hold as well as protection. Veneers will last on the smile for fifteen years or longer thanks to this material. Learn more about what composite resin can do for your smile by scheduling a dentist appointment today.