Composite is used in a variety of applications as an alternative to waxes and ceramics. In its pre-hardened, or pre-cured state, the composite material is very malleable yet semi-fluid, and can be easily moulded into shape. A dentist may apply this material directly into the patients mouth; on or into a tooth (e.g. a filling or inlay). Where as in a laboratory, a technician will use it indirectly, or away from the mouth to create restorations. Hence the terms "Direct Composite" and "Indirect Composite" .
Working with Composite
The malleable composite material is skillfully applied, over a pre prepared Die or metal frameworks, using hand tools or special composite applicators.
Light Curing Composite
The curing process, or hardening, can be performed in several ways: Chemically; or by an ultra-violet light source; or by using a combination of both techniques. He we are using a 3M ESPE Visio Alfa light unit to harden a composite onlay.
Finishing Composite Work
The cured composite can then be finished using hand burrs, and rubbers, to create life like tooth fissures and cusps.
Advanced Composite Processes
The curing process can also be influenced by heat and oxygen inhibition (i.e. a vacuum) using a 3M ESPE Visio Beta Vario vacuum light curing unit.
Fibre Reinforcement
Fibre glass and carbon fibre can be used in conjunction with composites to form frames and substructures. StickTech fibreNet is one such material.
Fibre Supported Composite
A pair of fibre reinforced Maryland bridges. Fibre support is a possible alternative to metal, where metal might cause a reaction in the patients mouth.
Metal Supported Composite
Composite can be applied to complex support substructures as well. Like to this metal alloy bridge.
Adaptable Composite Structures
As an overlaying material (i.e. over a substructure), composite is used in situations where adaptability and ease of repair out way the benefits of other materials.
