A fresh and healthy smile is soothing and infectious. Since childhood, you’ve always been encouraged to brush and floss regularly. However, our love for sweet things may be overwhelming, which gradually leads to tooth decay and damage. In such situations, dental inlays and onlays are great options. At Soothing Dental, we are experts in these two teeth restoration services, which will be done quickly and efficiently.
What are Inlays and Onlays in Dentistry?
While both are used to restore decayed teeth, the two are different in various ways. A dental inlay is a pre-molded fitting that is used to cover the chewing surface of a tooth. The inlay can be made of porcelain or composite and fits into the hollow of the decayed tooth. This option is favorable for restoring teeth that haven’t been extensively damaged.
On the other hand, a dental onlay is more comprehensive and usually restores damage present on the teeth’ cusps. This option is used when the cavity is too large to use a filling. It repairs the biting surface and the space between the teeth.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Coming to Soothing Dental to have your teeth restored using inlays and onlays comes with several benefits such as:
• Conservative treatment – Using inlays and onlays doesn’t require much teeth reduction, as is the case with crowns.
• Strength and durability – Since porcelain is used for most of these procedures, you will get to enjoy strong teeth for 20 to 30 years with proper oral care.
• Natural-looking – The great thing about inlays and outlays is that they can be shade-matched to mimic the surrounding teeth’ color.
• Less expansion – Inlays and onlays made of porcelain don’t change their size due to temperature fluctuations.
• Cost-effective – Most insurance companies cover inlay and onlay procedures. While these two may be more expensive than crowns, they last longer, saving you money in the long run.
Are Inlays Better than Fillings?
This is one question that we always get at Soothing Dental. It all depends on the size of the cavity. When the damage isn’t much, you may go for a filling that provides a quick fix since the procedure’s materials are all in the dentist’s office. For inlays, Soothing Dental uses their CEREC to mill the pieces, so it usually can be completed same day. Inlays often resemble your natural teeth and are more expensive due to the custom-made materials used.
How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last?
Dental professionals can’t guarantee how long an inlay or onlay will last. However, for inlays, the period can be anywhere between 5 and 30 years, depending on one’s dental hygiene. Onlays can last for over 30 years with the right care. Once you get an inlay or onlay at our clinic, we will educate you on ensuring that the treatment lasts for a long time.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Do you have a decayed tooth that’s hampering your ability to eat or smile? At Soothing Dental, we offer high-quality dental services in Midlothian, TX, that will restore and protect your teeth.
Contact us today to schedule a dentist appointment. We are always ready to bring back your smile!
Soothing Dental is a family dental practice that provides a luxury, relaxing, spa-like environment for the Midlothian community. We see patients of all ages!