Your smile is one of the most important aspects of your appearance and can have a major impact on how others perceive you.
Regaining a beautiful smile after dental damage can be a difficult process, but with the help of dental inlays and onlays, you can revitalise your smile.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn about the benefits and process of these procedures, as well as how to properly care for your inlays and onlays for a lasting smile.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays
Dental inlays and onlays are two types of restorative dental treatments used to repair moderate to severe tooth decay and other damage. Inlays and onlays can be used to restore or strengthen teeth without the need for crowns. Inlays and onlays are also known as indirect fillings as they are made outside the mouth and then fitted in place.
Inlays are typically made from composite resin, ceramic, or tooth-coloured porcelain and are used to fill a cavity in the centre of a tooth. The onlay treatment process is similar, however, onlays can be used to cover one or more cusps of a tooth. Onlays are typically made from porcelain or gold, and sometimes a combination of gold and other metals, known as a gold alloy.
Inlays and onlays are great options for restoring teeth as they are custom-fitted to each individual tooth and provide a strong and durable solution. They offer strength and stability similar to dental crowns but require less tooth enamel removal. Inlays and onlays also look natural and can be matched to the shade of a patient’s existing teeth.
Inlays and onlays are a great way to revitalize your smile and improve the health and longevity of your teeth. If you have moderate to severe tooth decay or other damage, speak to your dentist about dental inlays and onlays and find out if they are the right option for you.
Benefits of Dental Inlays and Onlays
Using dental inlays and onlays can offer numerous benefits to patients looking to revitalise their smile. Dental inlays and onlays are an effective form of treatment that can repair damaged teeth and restore them to their natural strength and beauty. These procedures can be used to replace large areas of lost tooth structure and are generally more durable than composite fillings. The benefits of dental inlays and onlays include improved aesthetics, better protection for teeth, and increased strength.
Composite inlays and onlays are made from a strong, tooth-coloured material that can be matched to the colour of the patient’s teeth. They are a great way to improve the look of a smile without the need for full-coverage crowns. Gold inlays and onlays are a more permanent option and are considered to be the strongest of all materials used for inlays and onlays.
Inlay onlays are custom-made in a dental laboratory and are a great option for those looking for a more permanent solution. The material used for inlays and onlays is more durable than composite fillings and can last for years with proper care and maintenance. They are also an ideal choice for those who are allergic to metal fillings.
To get the most out of the procedure, it is important to visit a professional dentist who is experienced in providing inlay and onlays. The dentist will be able to determine the best material for inlays and onlays that best suits the patient’s needs. With the help of a professional, patients can be sure they are getting the best possible outcome from the procedure.
How Are Dental Inlays and Onlays Placed
The placement of dental inlays and onlays is a complex process that requires knowledge and skill. In order to bring back the full function and beauty of a patient’s smile, dentists must carefully assess the area in need of repair. Here are some of the key steps involved in the placement of dental inlays and onlays:
- Examining the affected area for signs of tooth decay or other damage
- Preparing the tooth surface for the restoration
- Selecting the materials to be used, such as porcelain inlays, composite materials, or gold
- Crafting the restoration to fit the exact shape of the patient’s tooth
- Bonding the inlay or onlay to the chewing surfaces of the patient’s tooth
Dental inlays and onlays are considered indirect restorations, meaning they are made outside of the mouth and then bonded to the tooth. This advanced technique allows dentists to repair damage in a way that closely mimics the original tooth structure. The end result is a natural-looking restoration that is strong and durable.
If you think you may need a dental inlay or onlay, schedule an appointment with your dentist. With proper care, this type of restoration can last for many years.
Caring for Dental Inlays and Onlays
With proper care, dental inlays and onlays can last for many years; however, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure their longevity. To extend the life of dental inlays and onlays, it is important to attend regular dental visits. During these visits, the dentist can inspect the inlays and onlays for any signs of wear and tear or deterioration.
It is also important to practice good oral hygiene on a daily basis. This includes brushing and flossing at least twice a day, as well as avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks. Cold foods and drinks should also be avoided, as they can cause the composite resin or porcelain used in the dental restoration to crack.
Digital impressions can also be used to monitor the condition of the inlays and onlays. Digital impressions allow the dentist to get a better view of the inlays and onlays, as well as the treatments of any cavities that may have been caused by the inlays or onlays.
In some cases, a regular filling may be recommended in order to protect the dental inlay or onlay from further damage. This is done to help prevent the inlay or onlay from cracking or breaking.
Having dental inlays and onlays is a great way to revitalise your smile. With proper care and regular checkups, your inlays and onlays can last for many years.
Key Takeaways
Dental inlays and onlays are an incredibly effective way to restore your smile. Not only do they provide strength and durability to your teeth, they also provide an aesthetically pleasing finish.
With proper care, your dental inlays and onlays can last a lifetime, so you can smile with confidence for years to come.
With a dental inlay or onlay, you can truly have a smile that is nothing short of spectacular – a smile that will dazzle everyone in the room!
If you’re looking for a fantastic way to restore your smile, head to Care Dental Camberwell. Our team of experienced dentists in Camberwell can provide you with the perfect dental inlay or onlay to make you smile with confidence for years to come. Contact us today to find out more about how our services can help you achieve a stunning, beautiful smile.