HOW LONG WILL COMPOSITE MATERIALS LAST?
The newer composites being used havent been around long enough to have been subjected to 10, 15, or 20 year longitudinal studies. However, there are several 5-7 year studies that indicate wear characteristics that are as good if not better than amalgam. Although the final jury might still be out, all present indications are good. In this regard, there are several aspects of these new materials that are very encouraging: • They do not contain mercury. • They are aesthetically pleasing. When you smile, people do not see black, grey, or silver areas. All they see is what looks like natural tooth color. In fact, youre hard pressed to tell the difference between the composite and your own natural teeth. • They do not generate any electrical currents and therefore do not participate in helping to corrode any other metallic fillings or restorations you may have in your mouth. • There is less loss of your natural tooth structure because the dentist doesnt have to do extensive preparation for t
