Inlay and onlay restorations are important concepts in dentistry. They are useful in treating damaged teeth in adults and teens. These durable restorations restore the look of damaged teeth. Created from durable materials such as porcelain, metal, or composite, inlays and onlays are placed outside the mouth and attached with cement. Getting these restorations from an experienced dentist in Memorial City, West Houston, improves tooth strength.
What are Inlays and Onlays?
- Inlays- Inlay restorations fit on the chewing surface of the tooth. They are placed inside the tooth structure.
- Onlays- Onlays can cover one or multiple cusps of teeth
Kinds of Inlays
Inlays are divided depending on the type of materials and the method of fabrication used. The different kinds of inlays are:
- Composite Inlays: Composite inlays are made of composite resin and give the tooth structure an aesthetic look. They can match the shade of natural teeth and are cost-effective for dental patients.
- Ceramic Inlays: Ceramic inlays are durable and made of ceramic materials. Patients with dental issues can easily wear ceramic Inlays for a long time. These inlays can easily resist tough stains and wear and tear.
- Metal-Ceramic Inlays: Metal inlays are made of metal and ceramic materials and give a strong restoration to the tooth structure. They are affordable for many patients.
- Gold Inlays: Gold inlays contain an alloy of gold and give great strength to the tooth structure. They can resist any force or solid object. However, the gold Inlays may have aesthetic concerns.
Major differences between Inlays and Outlays
One major difference between inlays and onlays is the part of a tooth’s structure that needs repair. Inlays can repair damaged inner tooth structures, such as the chewing area. Dentists use inlays to restore teeth to their natural shape. They can fit on the sides of the tooth.
Onlays support weak tooth structures and protect them from decay. Similar to dental crowns, they cover only a portion of the teeth.
Major perks of Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays work better than traditional dentures or fillings. They provide various benefits such as:
- They mix with the original structure and shade of the teeth.
- Most Inlays and onlays are made of durable materials that do not break or crack due to long use.
- They do not get broken due to wear and tear.
- Inlays and onlays can be used for a long time without any hassle.
- Most inlays and onlays are made of materials that suit the natural color of teeth.
- Inlays and onlays are made of customized materials and can easily fit into any tooth structure. They provide a better fit and improve the functions of the teeth as well.
Best Maintenance Tips for Inlays and Onlays
Dentists recommend some of the best tips to care for inlays and onlays, such as:
- Patients with inlays and onlays must not break hard objects with their teeth. These objects will damage the materials used for inlays and onlays restorations.
- Brushing twice a day and flossing daily remove leftover food particles, waste, and plaque from the teeth.
- People with inlays and onlays must use fluoride toothpaste daily to keep their tooth structure strong for a long time.
- People with inlays and onlays must visit the dentist every six months for routine check-ups. They must also get their teeth cleaned regularly every few months to prevent plaque and germs.
Conclusion
Inlays and onlays benefit people with bad tooth structure and other dental problems. They strengthen teeth to withstand chewing force and other hard objects. An experienced team of dentists will provide fine-quality inlays and onlays restorations to patients at affordable prices.
