When your tooth gets damaged your dentist may recommend dental inlays or onlays. What are inlays and onlays and what do they do? Inlays and onlays are made of composite resin, gold or porcelain. You will be asked to choose what material you want applied on your teeth. A dental inlay is the same as dental fillings. It is applied inside the cusps of a damaged tooth. Onlays are more or less the same the only difference is that it covers a broader portion of your tooth.
Before, the only material used to make inlays and onlays was gold. However, today, the most in demand material is porcelain owing to its color and strength. The qualities of porcelain accurately resemble the features of natural teeth, which make it a great material of choice for both inlays and onlays.
How Are They Applied?
The application of inlays and onlays require two visits to your dentist. These two visits are enough to complete the procedure. During the initial visit, the decayed or damaged part of your tooth or your previous filling that you want to replace will be removed. This is an important step prior to the application of the inlay or onlay. To make sure the inlay or onlay is a perfect fit your dentist will obtain an impression of your tooth. The impression will then be sent to the lab for manufacturing. A temporary sealant will be placed on your tooth while you wait for your next appointment.
During your second appointment, your dentist will remove the sealant from your tooth. The inlay or onlay will be applied but your dentist will have to double check if it fits properly. Once that is complete, the inlay or onlay will be cemented into place using a resin and then it will be polished and smoothened to blend naturally with your tooth.
Why Do People Love Inlays and Onlays?
There are two reasons why people love inlays and onlays and why they would choose them over traditional fillings. First of all, traditional fillings weaken your tooth by up to 50%. Inlays and onlays, on the other hand, increase the durability and strength of your tooth by up to 75%. As a result, inlays and onlays last longer. In fact, individuals who have inlays and onlays say these modern-day fillings can last up to 30 years. When the damage is not so extensive you can choose to get an onlay rather than a dental crown.
When Are Inlays and Onlays Needed?
Dentists may recommend inlays and onlays if you have chipped or cracked teeth. They may also recommend it if you have tooth decay.
How Do You Keep Your Teeth Healthy?
If you have healthy teeth you don’t need to spend your money on inlays and onlays. It’s easy to keep your teeth healthy all you need to do is to establish an oral care routine. Brushing and flossing should be done daily. Brushing your teeth should be done at least twice a day for approximately 2 minutes. Flossing is just as important to remove food particles and debris in between teeth. If you don’t brush and floss your teeth using the guidelines recommended by the American Dental Association your risk of developing tooth decay, cavities and gum disease will be heightened. Aside from brushing and flossing you should also make it a point to see your dentist at least twice a year for a regular dental checkup and professional teeth clean. Aside from these, your choice of food and drinks also matter. As much as possible, limit your consumption of sweet and starchy food and drinks as these promote the formation of plaque.