In dentistry, a Composite filling is a tooth-colored restorative material composed of plastic with small glass or ceramic particles that are mixed into a gel-like substance. After being applied to a tooth, the material is then hardened with a curing light, a visible blue light which activates a catalyst in the composite and causes it to harden almost instantly. Composite fillings are often preferred by patients over silver amalgam fillings as they restore the natural appearance of the tooth. Since composite fillings bond to the tooth, they restore most of the original strength of the tooth, where silver weakens the teeth, making them more susceptible to breaking. One caution—composite fillings can be seriously weakened by excessive alcohol consumption. Thus, they can deteriorate prematurely if you have a habit of drinking high alcohol content beverages on a daily basis.

Note: The definitions on our web site are for reference purposes only and in no way represent any official dental advice. If you are experiencing any symptom defined by a term, you should seek the advice of your dental practitioner.

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