Dr. Dustin prefers placing white fillings in your teeth instead of the old-fashioned amalgam fillings. Patients prefer them overwhelmingly.

A composite resin is a tooth-colored plastic mixture filled with glass (silicon dioxide). Introduced in the 1960s, dental composites were confined to the front teeth because they were not strong enough to withstand the pressure and wear generated by the back teeth. Since then, composites have been significantly improved and can be successfully placed in the back teeth as well. Composites -are not only used for restoring decay, but are also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the color of the teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth.

How is a composite placed?

Following preparation, the dentist places the composite in layers, using a light specialized to harden each layer. When the process is finished, the dentist will shape the composite to fit the tooth. The dentist then polishes the composite to prevent staining and early wear.

How long does it take to place a composite?

Because a composite is more difficult to place than silver fillings, it takes the dentist longer to place. Placement time depends on the size and location of the cavity.

Prices vary, but composites average about one-and-a-half to two times the price of a silver filling. Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of the composite up to the price of a silver filling, with the patient paying the difference. As composites continue to Improve, insurance companies are more likely to cover the cost of composites.

What is the cost?

Prices vary, but composites average about one-and-a-half to two times the price of a silver filling. Most dental insurance plans comer the cost of the composite up to the price of a silver filling, with the patient paying the difference. As composites continue to improve, insurance companies are more likely to cover the cost of composites

What are the advantages of composite?

• They bond to the tooth, making the tooth stronger instead of weakening it the way amalgams do. Your teeth are more likely to fracture with amalgam fillings in them.
• They are less irritating to the teeth, so you generally don't have the prolonged sensitivity to cold that is typical of metal fillings.
• Because of the placement techniques, with white fillings the dentist only has to remove the decay. Weakened tooth structure can be bonded, thus making the white filling considerably smaller than a comparable amalgam.
• Not only are amalgam fillings black, but they stain your teeth. Once you're used to white, you won't want anything else.

When the fillings are small, Dustin uses a direct composite technique. With larger fillings, he uses Empress. This is a strong ceramic that reinforces the tooth and looks beautiful.

For very large fillings, he will place an Empress onlay, or go to an all-ceramic crown.

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See before and after examples of Dr. Nelson's fine cosmetic dentistry:

• See cosmetic dentistry before and after videos.

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