Inlay & Onlay Restorations for Your Dental Health
When your tooth’s structure, function, or comfort is compromised, tooth restoration becomes necessary. But with various procedures available, you might wonder why your dentist chooses one over another. For instance, why is an Inlay and Onlay Restorations more suitable than a filling?
Inlays and Onlays Restorations are types of tooth restorations used when dental fillings are insufficient due to extensive tooth damage. However, they are not extensive enough to require a dental crown. In other words, if your tooth is cracked, fractured, or has mild to moderate decay that cannot be addressed with a filling but still has enough natural tooth structure, Inlays and Onlays are the ideal solution.
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The Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
When considering whether a dental filling can work to restore a tooth, or whether an Inlay or Onlay is the more appropriate choice, your dentist will consider some of the benefits that it has over metal fillings. Some of these benefits include:
- Inlays and onlays can be more durable and long-lasting than fillings. They are made to withstand normal biting forces and can last up to three decades when well cared-for.
- Where metal fillings can reduce the strength of teeth by as much as 50%, Inlays and Onlays can improve the strength by as much as 75%.
- Metal fillings often have to be removed and replaced. Also it is not unusual for the dentist to discover the tooth needs more restoration or support than it was receiving through filling.
- In contrast, Inlays and Onlays can actually prolong the life of natural tooth structure. Also reduce the chance of further restoration treatment becoming necessary in the future.
What are Inlays and Onlays
A dental Inlay is not dissimilar to a traditional filling, and usually fits inside the cusp tips of the tooth. A dental Onlay, however, is a bit larger, and extends over the cusp tips of the tooth. To place one, your dentist will:
- First, administer local anesthesia to ensure you are as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure.
- Second, he will remove any old fillings and clean up the tooth as is necessary to remove any decay or damaged tooth structure.
- Third, he will take a dental impression of the tooth, which will be sent to a dental laboratory so the inlay or onlay can be custom-made to fit that tooth.
- In the interim, the dentist will place a temporary Inlay or Onlay over the prepared tooth to protect it.
Inlays and Onlays are commonly made out of porcelain. Since this can be closely matched to your natural tooth color it will therefore blend in when placed in your mouth. However, they can also be made out of composite resin or gold to provide additional strength. Your dentist will discuss with you the material that will work best, and send this information to the dental laboratory along with the impressions of your tooth.
During the second visit, the dentist will remove the temporary Inlay or Onlay and place the permanent ones. Once they have determined proper fit, they will cement it in place with a strong resin adhesive. Though it is not unusual for it to feel odd for a short time after placement, it will soon feel natural and comfortable. Allowing one to speak and eat normally. Any sore or sensitive tissue around the tooth would resolve within a few days.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
When deciding between a dental filling or an Inlay and Onlay Restorations, your dentist considers the advantages of the latter over metal fillings. These benefits include:
- Durability: Inlays and onlays are more durable and longer-lasting than fillings. They can withstand normal biting forces and can last up to three decades with proper care.
- Strength: Inlays and Onlays can improve tooth strength by up to 75%, while metal fillings can weaken teeth by as much as 50%.
- Minimal replacements: Unlike metal fillings, which often need to be replaced, Inlays and Onlays can extend the life of natural tooth structure and reduce the need for additional restoration in the future.
Understanding Inlays and Onlays
A dental Inlay is similar to a traditional filling and fits within the cusp tips of the tooth. On the other hand, a dental Onlay is slightly larger and covers the cusp tips of the tooth. To place an Inlay or Onlay, your dentist will:
- Administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
- Remove any old fillings and clean the tooth, eliminating decay or damaged tooth structure.
- Take a dental impression of the tooth, which will be sent to a dental laboratory to create a custom-made inlay or onlay.
- Temporarily place an Inlay or Onlay to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent one is being made.
Inlays and Onlays are typically made of porcelain, which can closely match your natural tooth color, blending seamlessly. However, they can also be made of composite resin or gold to provide additional strength. Your dentist will discuss the best material for your case and provide this information to the dental laboratory along with your tooth impressions.
During your second visit, the temporary Inlay or Onlay will be removed, and the permanent one will be placed. After ensuring proper fit, your dentist will secure it in place with a strong resin adhesive. Although it may feel unusual initially, it will soon become natural and comfortable, allowing you to speak and eat normally. Any soreness or sensitivity around the tooth should resolve within a few days.
Caring for Inlays and Onlays
To maintain the longevity of your inlays and onlays, it’s essential to practice good oral hygiene habits, including:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day.
- Flossing your teeth once a day.
- Avoiding chewing on hard objects like ice and pencils.
- Visiting your dentist every six months for examinations and cleanings.
For more information about inlays and onlays restorations or to schedule an appointment, contact your Dentist in Bowie.