Composite fillings (plastic fillings) are used for the restoration of tooth structure losses of small to medium extent. Due to their aesthetic match to the natural tooth color, they are an inexpensive alternative within their indication range (range of possible application) to more cost-intensive tooth-colored restorations that are less gentle on tooth substance, such as inserts and adhesive inlays. After placing the composite filling, its polishing is required for surface finishing.
Indications (areas of application)
The indication for polishing the composite material (resin fillings) is principally after placing a new restoration (filling). This is because surface roughness entails exogenous (externally deposited) discoloration and favors the accumulation (buildup) of plaque (dental plaque), which in turn can lead to new caries formation in the area of the filling margin.
The procedure
- The first step is to remove the material, which was previously deliberately applied in excess, to allow room for contouring (shaping) and later polishing,
- Then the elaboration of the filling by means of fine- to ultra-fine-grained diamonds and polishing wheels,
- In the interdental spaces (interdental spaces) with polishing strips matched in their surface structure accordingly.
- Special composite polishers are used on the filling surfaces.
Possible complications
- Since all instruments used for polishing can also remove tooth structure, appropriate care must be taken when working on the filling margins.
- Overheating during polishing due to a lack of water supply can both damage the pulp (tooth pulp) and negatively affect the quality of the composite material.
