An Ultimate Guide to Dental Inlays & Onlays

Dental health is vital for overall well-being. One option for restoring damaged teeth is through dental inlays and Onlays. These methods offer a sturdy and aesthetic solution. Knowing about these options helps you make informed choices about your dental care. This blog covers everything you need to know about dental inlays and onlays, from their benefits to how to care for them.

What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Dental inlays and onlays are advanced dental restorations used to repair teeth that are moderately damaged or decayed. These restorations are more robust than fillings but not as extensive as crowns, making them a perfect middle-ground solution.

• Inlays fit within the tooth grooves and do not extend over the cusps. They are ideal for treating cavities and structural damage within the cusps.
• Onlays, on the other hand, cover a larger area, including one or more cusps. They are often referred to as partial crowns due to their extensive coverage.

Inlays and onlays are customized to fit the exact shape and size of the cavity or damaged area. They can be made from various materials, including porcelain, composite resin, and gold. These restorations provide a strong and durable solution for restoring the function and visual appearance of damaged teeth, hence ensuring they blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Dental inlays and onlays have several advantages that make them an ideal choice for many patients. Here are some key benefits:

• Durability and Longevity: Inlays and onlays are more durable than traditional fillings. They can withstand chewing forces better, making them a long-lasting solution.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Made from tooth-colored materials, inlays and onlays blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a natural look.
• Preservation of Tooth Structure: Inlays and onlays help to preserve more of your natural tooth than crowns because they need less of the natural tooth structure to be removed.
• Fit and Function: These restorations are custom-made to fit your tooth precisely, ensuring a better fit and improved functionality.
• Resistance to Stains: Materials like porcelain and composite resin resist staining better than traditional fillings, keeping your smile bright.

Compared to various other dental restorations, inlays and onlays provide a balanced solution. They offer the strength and durability needed for molars while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of visible teeth. Their ability to preserve natural tooth structure is particularly beneficial, promoting long-term dental health and function.

The Procedure

The process for getting dental inlays and onlays usually takes two visits to your Lakewood dentist. Here’s what to expect:

First Visit:

1. Consultation and Diagnosis: To determine how much decay or damage there is in your tooth, the dentist examines it and takes X-rays. This helps decide if an inlay or onlay is right for you.
2. Preparation: The dentist in 75214 numbs the area and removes the decayed or damaged part of the tooth. Then, the tooth is shaped to fit the inlay or onlay.
3. Impression: An impression of the ready tooth is taken to make a custom inlay or onlay for a precise fit.
4. Temporary Restoration: During the time the permanent inlay or onlay is being made, the tooth is protected with a temporary one.

Second Visit:

Placement: The temporary restoration is removed, and the permanent inlay or onlay is fitted. The dentist near you checks the fit and bite before cementing it.

After the procedure, some sensitivity is normal, but it should go away in a few days. The dentist will give you proper care instructions to help your new restoration last as long as possible.

Materials Used for Inlays and Onlays

Several materials can be used for dental inlays and onlays, each with its benefits:

• Porcelain: Porcelain is popular due to its natural appearance and strength. It blends well with natural teeth and resists staining.
• Composite Resin: Composite resin is tooth-colored and less expensive than porcelain. While not as durable as porcelain, it offers a good balance of aesthetics and function.
• Gold: Gold is extremely durable and long-lasting. It is often chosen for molars due to its strength, though it is more noticeable than tooth-colored options.

Pros and Cons

• Porcelain: Natural look, strong, stain-resistant, but can be brittle.
• Composite Resin: Less expensive, aesthetic, but wears down faster.
• Gold: Durable, long-lasting, but noticeable and more expensive.

Think about things like your budget, your preferred look, and the tooth’s location when selecting the material. Your dentist will best guide you in making the best choice for your needs.

Maintenance and Care

To keep your dental inlays and onlays in good condition, follow these care tips:

1. Daily Care: Brush twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles. Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your teeth.
2. Avoid Hard Foods: Don’t bite down on hard objects like ice or pens, as they may damage your inlays and onlays.
3. Regular Check-ups: Go to your dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings. This helps your dentist monitor your restorations and fix any issues early.
4. Handle Issues Promptly: If you feel discomfort or notice a problem with your inlay or onlay, contact your dentist near you immediately. Early action can prevent more damage and extend the life of your restoration.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your inlays and onlays in great shape, ensuring they last a long time and work well.

Ready to Restore Your Smile with Inlays and Onlays?

Dental inlays and onlays offer a robust and aesthetically pleasing solution for repairing damaged teeth. They provide the strength needed for chewing and the look that blends well with natural teeth. Understanding the procedure, materials, and care involved helps you make well-informed decisions related to your dental health.

If you think dental inlays or onlays might be right for you, contact Lakewood Family Dental Care today. Fix a consultation with our highly experienced team and take the initiative towards a healthier smile. Contact us to book your appointment now. Your smile deserves the best care, so don’t wait any longer!