What is dental composite?
Dental composite (composite bonding) is one of the methods of cosmetic dentistry that is used to repair the appearance of tooth problems such as discoloration, fracture, distance between teeth, loose lips, and improving the shape of teeth. In this method, a paste-like material called composite resin is placed on the tooth and then it is shaped and finally this material becomes hard and solid on the tooth using a special light. This method is performed in one session and does not require a lot of tooth grinding, and for this reason it is considered a very popular method. What are the advantages and disadvantages of dental composite?
It is very important to know the advantages and disadvantages of dental composite before performing this procedure. In the following, you will learn about the advantages and disadvantages of dental composite:
### **Advantages of dental composite**
Dental composite plays an important role in beautifying the smile by correcting the appearance of dental problems. Among the benefits of tooth composite to beautify the appearance of teeth, the following can be mentioned:
#### Filling small spaces between teeth
One of the important advantages of composite is that it can fill small gaps between teeth. Because the composite veneer is molded based on the individual's teeth, during molding, the cover can be designed and installed in such a way that no gap between the teeth can be seen. This feature can only be done in the case of small gaps, and for large gaps, other methods such as orthodontics should be used. #### Repairing crooked teeth
Another advantage of composite is that it can fix partial misalignment of teeth. This method can only be used in cases where the irregularity of the teeth is very minor; Otherwise, orthodontics should be used to correct this situation. #### teeth whitening
One of the most important benefits of composite is tooth whitening. Unlike methods such as using whitening toothpaste, whitening powder or bleaching, this method is long-lasting and durable and offers a wider range of tooth color. This point helps the dentist to choose a suitable color for the teeth according to important things such as the color of the adjacent teeth, eye color, skin color, etc. #### Repair of minor tooth fractures
Composite can treat very minor fractures or abrasions. This fracture and abrasion must be very minor so that the composite can cover them; Otherwise, you should look for other methods for treatment. #### Change in tooth size
Composite can also make the size of the teeth proportional. For example, if a person has short teeth and wants to have longer teeth, this can be done by installing composite veneers. Also, by using this method, the teeth can be shaped in such a way that they have more length and curvature or become in the shape of rabbit teeth. #### Preservation of tooth structure
One of the most important advantages of dental composite is that this method does not require shaving. This issue makes many people who do not want to shave their teeth go for this method. In this method, unlike the tooth veneer and laminate method, there is no need to sharpen the teeth unless the person's teeth are very prominent and large and the dentist has to shave a little bit of the person's teeth to install the composite. #### Reasonable cost
One of the important advantages of dental composite is the reasonable cost of this method. Unlike methods such as dental laminates, veneers, and orthodontics, the cost of dental composite is very affordable, and this makes many people use this method to beautify their teeth. #### Short treatment duration
The length of dental composite treatment is short; Because it does not need to be molded. Dental composite is applied and fixed on the tooth in one session. This helps people who don't want to spend a lot of time to beautify their teeth go for this method. #### Possibility of reversibility
Composite veneer can be restored and removed if the outer layer of tooth enamel is not removed. This issue makes many people go for this method to repair their teeth. #### The possibility of less tooth sensitivity
Since tooth enamel is not shaved in the composite method, the possibility of teeth sensitivity after installing the composite is much less. This issue makes people who are worried about problems such as tooth sensitivity go for this method. ### **Disadvantages of dental composite**
Along with the advantages of composite, its disadvantages should also be considered. Among the disadvantages of dental composite, the following can be mentioned:
#### Less durability and durability compared to laminate
One of the disadvantages of dental composite is its shorter durability compared to dental laminate. Since dental composite materials have less resistance and strength, the composite is less resistant to impact and coloring agents, and this issue makes its lifespan shorter. The lifespan of dental composite varies between 5 and 10 years, depending on the brand and how to care for it. #### Color change and more staining
Another disadvantage of dental composite is that it can easily change color against colored and staining foods. This issue makes eating and drinking substances such as sugarcane, tea, coffee, etc. limited for a person. #### Abnormal appearance
Composite is thicker compared to dental laminate, and if unreliable brands are used for this work, it can have a completely artificial effect. #### Needs a lot of polishing and repair
Composite veneer needs basic care and maintenance. It is very important that people maintain oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. Also, you should see a dentist every 6 months for dental composite polishing to maintain the transparency and whiteness of the coating.
What are the side effects of composite front teeth?
Dental composite is very widely used to correct the shape and color of front teeth; But if the composite of these teeth is not done correctly, it can cause complications. One of the serious side effects of composite front teeth is pain and sensitivity, which should be done as soon as possible to solve the problem of teeth in this situation. Among the short-term side effects of front teeth composite, we can mention the swelling, redness and sensitivity of the gums, which will disappear after a few days.
Side effects of shaving teeth to install dental composite
Composite is a method in which tooth enamel is not cut; However, it may be necessary for people with large, prominent, rough and long teeth or teeth with large stains. In these situations when it is necessary to shave the teeth, maintaining the health of the teeth depends a lot on the expertise and experience of the dentist. If this work is not done by an experienced specialist, it can cause the following complications:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Weakening of tooth structure
- Inability to return to the initial state
- Increased risk of tooth decay
- Gum inflammation and irritation
- Color change and need to be replaced
Complications of dental composite removal
It is very important that the removal or removal of the composite is done by a skilled specialist so that there are no problems in the work process. It should be noted that in some people, the surface of the tooth may be shaved to perform the composite, and after the composite is removed, feelings such as pain and sensitivity may bother the person. Also, one of the other side effects of tooth composite removal is the loss of tooth shine; Because the color of the tooth enamel changes when the composite coating is removed.