Dental inlays and how they work.
An inlay in dentistry is a laboratory constructed fillingA lay term used for the restoring of lost tooth structure by using materials such as metal, alloy, or porcelain. that is placed into the tooth in order to restore it. It can be used when your tooth has been damaged or decayed and provides greater resilience. The inlay also differs from an onlay, which is commonly used when there has been heavier damage to the tip or cusp of the tooth.
The process involves consulting your dentist prior to the treatment, so that they can talk you through the steps and you can agree on the type of inlay you would prefer.
At the start of your treatment your dentist will anesthetize the affected area and begin cleaning the tooth, by drilling into it and removing any decayThe lay term for carious lesions in a tooth; decomposition of tooth structure.. Once the tooth has been properly cleaned, they will make a mould to send to the lab, where it is created.
At the lab, the inlay will be made from a compositeSingle surface composite filling (white or tooth colored) performed on a tooth in the front of the mouth. resin or porcelain or even gold. Obviously aome patients prefer the new restoration to match with the natural colour of the enamelHard calcified tissue covering dentin of the crown of tooth.. This then provides your teeth with a dental restoration which looks completely natural.
One of the key reasons people go for dental inlays is that they offer greater durability and longevity than regular fillings, which are commonly made from composite or amalgam. If you want an inlay with the longest lifespan, you should consider the gold option, due to its heightened strength and lifespan of up to 20 years if properly cared for – this includes great oral hygiene, attention to your diet and regular visits with your dentist.
Book an appointment
