Composite resin

Unlike dental amalgam, composite resin is aesthetic. Composed primarily of polymers and very hard tiny particles, this white-colored material is used to restore anterior and posterior teeth to correct defects due to small- or medium-sized cavities, fractures, or a poorly-positioned tooth.

This fracture-resistant material can also be used to replace broken or lost teeth. There is also a softer version used more frequently with children, but also with adults as a sealant to prevent cavities from developing in the cracks and fissures in the posterior teeth.

Composite resinPros and cons

Composite resin is a highly aesthetic material available in various shades to match different tooth colours. This type of resin can also be used to correct smaller cavities on posterior teeth, while amalgam is used for larger cavities.

However, it is important to note that composite resin is not as durable as enamel, and it is more susceptible to wear if it covers a large surface when used on posterior teeth. Some also consider the fact that resin-based restorations are more expensive to be a disadvantage. For more information, we recommend reading our article about dental examinations.