When dentists are needed to repair moderately damaged or decayed teeth they don’t just rely on fillings and crowns. They can also offer dental inlays and Onlays for patients. These restorations are made from gold, porcelain or composite materials for restorative purposes.
Dentists may offer dental inlays and Onlays when a tooth that is extensively damaged to be repaired with a filling but does not qualify for a crown. These restorations can save a healthy portion of the injured tooth and provide strength and stability for normal chewing.
A dental inlay will be placed in the center of the tooth and a dental onlay is placed on the inside and outer areas of the tooth. They are often referred to as indirect fillings or partial crowns. Dental inlays and Onlays are not expensive and a less aggressive treatment option compared to dental crowns.
The procedure for placing dental inlays or Onlays is considered safe but complications and risks can arise. It is the only method used to repair decayed or damaged teeth and therefore patients must discuss all options with their dentist to understand the treatment best suited for them.
Your dentist may suggest dental inlays or Onlays for conditions as mentioned below:
Chipped or cracked teeth that cannot be repaired by dental filling but may not require extensive procedures for the repair like a root canal or dental crown.
Tooth decay occurs when the bacteria in the mouth produce acid to damage the teeth. Minor to moderate decay can always be repaired by dentists with a dental filling. However, if the decay is moderate to severe the dentist will decide to use a dental inlay or onlay or even a crown to safeguard the functionality of the tooth.
The following dental professionals can perform procedures of dental inlay and onlay:
The procedure for the dental inlay or onlay will be performed by a professional from restorative dentistry in a dental office or clinic. The procedure can vary according to the type of tooth and inlay or onlay that may be required but generally includes the following steps.
Your comfort and care are important to your dentist and the care team. You may feel brief pinches when the dentist administers the local anesthesia by applying a topical anesthetic for your gums before the injections. You may also feel some pressure as your dentist prepares your tooth to receive the restorations. You can take a few deep breaths and try to relax and inform your dentist if you feel any discomfort that is not passing away quickly.
Caring for the restorations in your mouth will not be difficult as long as you continue to brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for six-monthly checkups without fail. When cared for properly they can last from 10 to 30 years ensuring they are a good investment as a procedure of restorative dentistry.
Meta tag. Do you have moderately damaged or decayed teeth that cannot be repaired by a filling or a dental crown and are searching for other options to correct the problem? Read this article to understand how restorative dentistry is offering you dental inlays and Onlays to restore your teeth to the normal function and also safeguard them.