What to Know Before and After Getting Dental Inlays?

Tooth damage or decay can occur even with a rigorous dental hygiene routine or regular checkups. Fortunately, the dentist in 48917 provides several options to repair and restore teeth. One of the methods they use is dental inlays. Read on to learn about dental inlays and when they are necessary.

What Are Dental Inlays?

They are restorations that repair cavities centered in the tooth instead of along the cusps or outer edges. Dental inlays are created using an impression of your tooth and then fitted into its grooves. Although inlays resemble dental fillings, they are designed for larger cavities.

The other difference between fillings and inlays is the placement process. Fillings are placed directly on the affected tooth, then shaped and bonded to it. However, inlays are custom-created in a dental lab and bonded to the tooth. In addition, inlays do not contract like fillings making them less likely to fail. As a result, they last longer than fillings.

What Is the Main Difference Between Inlays and Onlays?

If you have heard of inlays, you must have also heard of Onlays. Dental inlays and Onlays treatment repair tooth damage and restore function and appearance. The dentist will use an inlay or Onlay for decayed or fractured teeth or fillings. They also use restorations for the cosmetic enhancement of teeth.

Inlays and Onlays are used if the tooth has experienced severe damage to need a filling but not enough to require a crown. The restorations are created outside the mouth. They are then placed on the tooth as a solid piece that perfectly fills the cavity. Both are made from materials like porcelain, resin, and metal alloys.

However, inlays and Onlays have a few differences. Inlays repair damage and restore teeth affected in the chewing area. On the other hand, Onlays restore teeth damaged on both the biting surface and cusps. Therefore, Onlays treat and cover a larger tooth area than inlays.

What Does Getting Dental Inlays Involve?

The dental inlay procedure is straightforward, fast, and relatively painless. First, the dentist will examine your tooth to determine if the restorations suit you. If they are, the dentist will discuss the treatment plan, cost of treatment, and aftercare.

Next, they will numb the tooth and surrounding tissues with a local anesthetic to prevent pain. Then, the dentist will drill into the damaged or decayed tooth to clean it. After removing the decayed and damaged parts, they will take the tooth’s impression. Alternatively, they may take 3D images of the tooth to enable the creation of the inlay.

The dentist will use composite resin or porcelain materials to custom-make your inlay. They will pick a color that resembles your natural tooth for a seamless appearance. Once the inlay is fabricated, the dentist will insert the filling into the cavity. They will then ensure it fits comfortably and does not affect your bite.

When Is a Dental Inlay Your Best Option?

The dentist in 48917 will carefully examine your tooth’s biting surface to determine if dental inlays are ideal for you. In addition, they will review your oral health and medical history. They will also check your medications before considering the treatment.

Your dentist will recommend inlays if the break, fracture, or decay does not affect your tooth’s cusps. If it does, you will need dental Onlays instead. The dentist will also fix your teeth with inlays if the damage is too extensive to repair with a dental filling. In addition, they will use inlays where fillings could further weaken the remaining tooth structure.

Inlays may also be your best option if the injury does not allow the dentist to remove enough tooth material to support a crown. In addition, the dentist will use inlays if the patient requires minimal removal of the tooth structure.

Caring for Dental Inlays

After your dental inlay treatment, you must take proper care of the tooth and mouth. This will ensure the restoration functions as intended and lasts for a long time. For the first 48 hours after treatment, avoid foods or drinks with extreme temperatures. Doing so prevents sensitivity. Also, avoid eating hard, sticky or chewy foods as they may dislodge or damage the inlay.

Are you considering dental inlays and Onlays treatment? Then contact us at Gentle Dental Care.