When a tooth structure has been compromised by wear, your Dr. May choose to use composite to restore it. When repairing tooth wear a material called composite can be a great option. Composite closely mimics the tooth's natural shade and sheen while preserving most of the tooth's. Natural structure Composite has several distinct advantages. The first being cost treating with composite is significantly less expensive than other treatment options. Many times, the underlying issues that caused the tooth wear in the first place are still in play once a restoration has been placed. As such, the same forces that destroy the natural tooth structure will also eventually compromise any restoration placed in the mouth. Composite allows for more simple repairs if a restoration fails. In some cases, composite can be used as an interim step, treating a complex case as it allows for a natural looking restoration that can restore the teeth If treatment is phased over time to place composite, a special bonding agent is applied to the area to help ensure the composite material attaches to the natural tooth structure. A curing light is then used to set the bonding fluid. Your doctor applies the composite material to the prepared area and shapes it to match the contours of your teeth. Again, using the curing light, the shaped composite is hardened to resist the forces of the opposing teeth. As a final step, your doctor will polish the composite filling to smoothen it and give it a similar sheen to the rest of your teeth. Once completed, the composite should slow the signs of wear and protect the tooth temporarily.