When Are Dental Inlays Recommended?

Dental inlays are one of the options your dentist might decide to use to repair a damaged tooth. People must not confuse inlays with outlays since both are used to deal with specific types of damage to a tooth.

A dental inlay is a type of pre-molded filling that one inserts into the grooves of a damaged tooth. Inlays do not extend past the cusps of the tooth under repairs. During the procedure, we will apply a local anesthetic to the area surrounding the tooth that needs repairs.

We will then make a hole in the tooth with a drill and remove all the decayed matter. This procedure is necessary when a tooth sustains damage from an injury or decay but the integrity of the cusp remains intact.

Next, we will make an impression of the tooth and send it to a lab. Inlays can consist of composite resin or porcelain. The prosthetic will match the natural color of your teeth. Inlays last longer than traditional fillings, with gold inlays being the most durable.

Differences between inlays, onlays, and fillings

An onlay is a type of pre-molded filling that is used to repair a tooth with a damaged tip, cusp, or biting surface. The procedure is a lot similar to the way we place inlays. Your dentist will start by injecting the area next to the tooth with a local anesthetic, then drill the tooth and clean out the cavity.

As we take an impression of the tooth, we will also fit a temporary onlay. Once the permanent onlay is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary onlay and insert the permanent prosthetic.

When to consider getting an inlay

The most effective way to ensure good oral health is by properly taking care of your teeth and gums. Brush at least twice a day and make sure your teeth are getting all the calcium and fluoride they need. However, taking good care of your teeth is not always enough to keep cavities away, especially when you are a big fan of sugary treats.

If you end up with cavities, here are a few things that will help you decide if inlays are the right solution for you:

• The tooth is broken, decayed, or fractured, but the cusp remains intact

• The tooth requires a large filling that might weaken what's left

• The tooth isn't damaged enough to justify removing more tooth material so a crown can be mounted

Wrapping up

Regular fillings, onlays, and inlays are great ways to restore the function of a tooth while preventing further decay. Each one has its specific uses. Your dentist will let you know what the best option is after a thorough examination.

There is no need to feel self-conscious about the way your teeth look due to damage or decay. Contact Titan Dental Care today and find out if inlays are the right solution for your damaged teeth.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Titan Dental Care, request an appointment in our Sterling dental office here: https://www.titandentalcare.com. Or call us at (703) 745-3227.