Porcelain inlays and onlays are dental restoration procedures that are used to restore weak and damaged teeth. The only difference between the two is the location where the porcelain restoration is placed.
Porcelain inlays are those that are placed in between the cusps or the chewing surfaces of the teeth while porcelain onlays are placed on one or more cusps. This dental restoration procedure differs from regular fillings because it can make your teeth stronger and it lasts much longer, too.
What does the inlay/onlay procedure involve?
The dental professional will assess the area of decay first. For areas where there is already extensive tooth decay or damage, but the overall tooth structure is not yet compromised, then a porcelain inlay/onlay is applicable.
The dentist will numb the area to start. If this is your first procedure, the dentist will address the decaying area by removing the bacteria from the tooth. If there is an old filling present, it will be carefully removed.
After the bacteria is taken out, the tooth will be smoothed out and shaped for the filling. They will then use a mold to take the shape of your tooth. This mold will be used as a guide for the inlay/onlay that the dental professional will prepare. A temporary restoration will be given to you until your porcelain inlay/onlay is ready. You can receive it on your next visit.
For inlays and onlays in Cranbrook, consult with a dentist near you.
What are the benefits of inlays and onlays?
1. They match your natural teeth
The porcelain materials used for the inlay/onlay are carefully chosen so they will match the colour of your natural teeth. Since this restoration procedure also blends well with your existing teeth, you can still flaunt your natural smile with full confidence.
2. They are stain-resistant
As an added guarantee to the first benefit, porcelain inlays/onlays are stain-resistant, therefore, allowing you to maintain the natural colour of your teeth for a long period of time. Other dental restorations are prone to staining especially if you are an avid fan of red wine, coffee, pop, or smoking.
3. They are durable
Porcelain inlays and onlays are made to last for years which is why they are a better alternative compared to regular fillings.
4. They strengthen the structure of teeth
Since this is a restorative dental procedure, it can help strengthen the affected tooth/teeth. When your teeth are decayed, chipped, or cracked, it affects the overall integrity of your tooth, therefore, weakening its structure. By choosing to go for a restorative procedure like porcelain inlays/onlays, you will be able to address and prevent further damage.
5. They restore the function of your teeth
Aside from the aesthetic benefits of porcelain inlays/onlays, they also restore the natural functionality of your tooth. It’s difficult to eat or chew well when you know there is something wrong with your tooth. It can also be bothersome to endure the pain brought about by tooth decay or a cracked tooth.
Restoring your tooth’s normal shape can make you feel relieved and comfortable.
6. They prevent tooth loss
If you don’t do anything to address your decaying tooth or teeth, chances are, you will experience tooth loss. When this procedure is conducted (cleaning of decay and placement of a filling), you will be able to prevent this from happening.
Porcelain inlays and onlays are a long-term solution to address a decaying tooth and an excellent preventive measure for further damage. Beyond the beauty it restores, making your tooth/teeth function normally again is one of the greatest advantages this procedure can offer. Look for a dentist in Cranbrook that provides porcelain inlays and onlays near you.