Composite filling is a mixture of glass or quartz filler in a resin medium that produces a tooth-colored filling. Composite fillings are durable and resistant to fractures in small-to-mid size restorations that need to withstand moderate chewing pressure. Less tooth structure is removed, which may result in smaller fillings. Composites can also be “bonded” or adhesively held in a cavity, often allowing the dentist to make a more conservative repair to the tooth.
Composite resin filling materials tend to be more expensive and require longer treatment time. They are also subject to stain and discoloration over time.