Thornton Inlay Restorations Dentistry
If you have a cavity or decay, the most common options are fillings and crowns. But maybe what you need is something in between. Perhaps the cavity requires more than a filling but a crown is a bit too much. When you need something “just right,” dentists will use inlays and onlays.
An inlay fills in cavities in the areas between the cusps. An onlay goes a bit further and works for a larger area, including the cusps. Neither one covers the entire surface of the tooth. While they cover different areas, they are both made from the same materials and serve the same function.
An inlay restoration is a custom made filling made of composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain. It is made by a professional dental laboratory and is permanently cemented into the tooth by your dentist.
Inlays can be utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma. Inlays are an ideal alternative to conventional silver and composite fillings. Also, they are more conservative than crowns because less tooth structure is removed in the preparation of inlays. Inlays are a good way to protect your teeth and make them look better.
Reasons for inlay restorations:
Even if you do your best to brush, floss, and eat a healthy diet, damage can still occur to your teeth for various reasons. Here are some reasons why you may need an inlay:
- Broken or fractured teeth.
- Cosmetic enhancement.
- Decayed teeth.
- Fractured fillings.
- Large fillings.
What does getting an inlay involve?
An inlay procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate impressions (molds) that will be used to create your custom inlay and a temporary restoration.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will remove any decay and/or old filling materials. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared, shaping the surface to properly fit an inlay restoration. A temporary filling will be applied to protect the tooth while your inlay is made by a dental laboratory.
At your second appointment your new inlay will be carefully and precisely cemented into place. A few adjustments may be necessary to ensure a proper fit and that your bite is comfortable.
You will receive care instruction at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, a proper diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new inlay.
Benefits of Inlays
You may not have heard of an inlay before and are concerned about getting one. Rest assured that getting an inlay is an easy process that will benefit your tooth in the long run. Here are some benefits of inlays:
- They are stronger than fillings, allowing your teeth to withstand more pressure when chewing.
- They preserve more of your natural teeth.
- They are tooth-colored, so they blend in with your other teeth and nobody will notice.
- They can last longer than fillings, as long as you take care of them.
- They are cemented to the tooth, so they can prevent further damage and infection.
- Getting an inlay is a relatively painless and straightforward process.
How Long Do Inlays Last?
As with most dental restorations, inlays are not always permanent and may someday require replacement. They are highly durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.
They can last from 5-30 years, depending on how well you care for them. Your dentist cannot guarantee how long they will last because some undergo more wear and tear than others. Plus, if they are not well-cared for, then they can get damaged or fail early on.
Good dental habits are key, so make sure you are brushing and flossing daily after the inlays are put in place. Also, be sure to follow any special recommendations from the dentist. This means going to the dentist for follow-up visits when needed.
You will also need to do what you can to reduce wear and tear on your inlays, as grinding teeth can cause damage. If you grind your teeth in your sleep, ask your dentist about night guards or other solutions to protect the teeth.
Your dietary choices can also affect the longevity of your inlays. Hard food can crack the material, while chewy food may stick to the material, which can cause the bonds to loosen.
So the better you take care of your inlays, the longer they will last.