The Advantages of Inlays and Onlays

Are you needing dental restoration but unsure which option is best for you? Look no further! This article will explore the benefits of inlays and onlays as alternatives to traditional fillings. If you’re searching for inlays and onlays in Encinitas, CA, and seeking a reliable dentist near you, Steve Horne, DDS, is here to help.

About Inlays and Onlays

Let’s start by understanding what inlays and onlays are. Inlays and onlays are special dental restorations used when a tooth has experienced moderate to severe decay or damage. They are custom-made in a dental laboratory and afterward bonded to the affected tooth by a dentist. Inlays fit within the tooth grooves, while onlays extend beyond the cusps to cover a larger portion of the tooth’s surface.

The Difference between Inlays, Onlays, and Fillings

Now that we know the basics of inlays and onlays let’s compare them to traditional fillings. Fillings are typically made from materials such as amalgam or composite resin and are directly placed into the cavity or damaged area of the tooth. In contrast, inlays and onlays are fabricated outside the mouth, ensuring a precise fit and excellent durability.

The key distinction between inlays, onlays, and fillings lies in the amount of tooth structure they restore. Fillings are suitable for minor to moderate cavities, whereas inlays and onlays are more appropriate for larger areas of decay or damage. In addition, fillings tend to weaken the tooth structure over time, while inlays and onlays provide strength and stability to the tooth.

Are Inlays and Onlays Better Options for You?

Now, let’s discuss why inlays and onlays might be better options for you compared to traditional fillings.

• Enhanced Durability: Inlays and onlays are fabricated using high-quality materials like porcelain or composite resin, known for their strength and longevity. They can withstand biting forces and resist wear, ensuring your restoration lasts for years.
• Aesthetics: Inlays and onlays are custom-made to match the shade and figure of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking result. Unlike traditional fillings, which may discolor over time, inlays and onlays retain their appearance and help maintain your beautiful smile.
• Preservation of Tooth Structure: Inlays and onlays require minimal removal of healthy tooth structure. This conservative approach helps preserve the maximum amount of your natural tooth, reducing the risk of further damage and the need for more extensive treatments in the future.
• Long-term Cost-effectiveness: Although inlays and onlays may initially involve a higher upfront cost than fillings, their durability and resilience make them a cost-effective choice in the long term. Proper oral hygiene and consistent dental check-ups, inlays and onlays can provide reliable and lasting restorations.

In summary, when it comes to restoring damaged teeth, inlays and onlays offer significant advantages over traditional fillings. They provide superior durability and aesthetics and help preserve your natural tooth structure. Our dentist near you at Steve Horne, DDS, will further explore the benefits of inlays and onlays. Make an excellent decision about your dental restoration and enjoy a healthy, confident smile for years!