When searching for restorative dental care with durability and aesthetic appeal, one discovers that dental inlays and onlays have established themselves as exceptional solutions. These advanced dental treatments are often recommended by dental professionals across Australia for repairing teeth that have suffered from moderate damage or decay.
But what makes them so effective? And why have they gained popularity among us this year? Let’s explore the science behind these restorations and discover why they might also be the ideal choice for you.
Understanding Dental Inlays and Onlays
Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations made from various materials, which include porcelain and composite resin to gold. They repair teeth with cavities or dental fractures that are extensive for traditional filling but not extensive for a full crown.
- Inlays: These fit neatly within the grooves of a tooth without overlapping the cusps of your tooth.
- Onlays: These extend over one or more cusps of your tooth, providing relatively greater coverage.
So, while fillings are moulded directly in the tooth, dental inlays are crafted in a laboratory using advanced scanning technology. This meticulous approach ensures an excellent fit and a natural appearance where standard fillings fail, thanks to the specialised moulding process that matches the exact dimensions of your tooth.
The Science Behind Their Durability
One key reason why dental inlays and onlays are considered durable is the exceptional set of offerings they provide to the users.
- Precise Fabrication: Modern dentistry employs sophisticated computer-aided systems to design and manufacture inlays and onlays with unmatched precision. This ensures a seamless fit, minimising potential spaces for bacteria to colonise.
- Robust and Lifelike Materials: Porcelain and composite resins are the materials of choice, engineered to withstand the demands of daily use They closely replicate the strength and aesthetic qualities of natural tooth enamel, resisting wear and tear while maintaining a natural appearance.
- Enhanced Adhesion, Extended Durability: These restorations are meticulously bonded to the tooth using cutting-edge adhesive methods. This creates a strong, enduring seal that significantly reduces the restoration’s risk of dislodging.
- Conserving Natural Tooth Structure: Unlike crowns, inlays and onlays require minimal removal of healthy tooth material. This helps preserve teeth’s natural strength and integrity.
- Insensitive to Temperature Fluctuations: Unlike metal fillings, inlays and onlays are not susceptible to expansion or contraction caused by hot or cold beverages and foods. This considerably reduces the risk of fractures and sensitivity.
- Reduced Risk of Bacterial Invasion: The precise fit of inlays and onlays minimises the crevices where bacteria can accumulate and initiate decay. This contributes to maintaining oral health and preventing further tooth damage.
Benefits That Make Them Stand Out
1. Long-lasting Performance
Dental inlays and onlays, if cared for properly, can last 10 to 30 years. They are more durable than traditional fillings, especially for teeth that are subjected to high forces during chewing.
- Stronger than traditional fillings: Less prone to breaking under pressure.
- Preserves natural teeth: Reduces the requirement for more invasive procedures in the future.
2. More Natural Appearance
Porcelain inlays and onlays blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing an aesthetically pleasing finish.
- Tooth-coloured materials: Offered in several different shades that match the tint of your natural teeth.
- Stain-resistant: Unlike composite fillings, they will not darken through time.
- No metal exposure:The absence of the greyish tint that is seen in metal fillings.
3. Bacteria Protection
Unlike traditional fillings that can shrink over time, creating gaps for bacteria to infiltrate, dental onlays and inlays fit snugly, preventing further decay.
- Prevents plaque accumulation: The smooth surface inhibits bacterial deposition.
- Reduces sensitivity: Helps protect exposed dentin (a hard tissue that makes up the majority of a tooth, located beneath the enamel) from hot and cold temperatures.
- Minimises cavity recurrence: It lessens the occurrence of new cavities around the restoration.
4. Customised Precision
Tailored to the exact shape of your tooth, they enhance functionality and comfort.
- Digital impressions for accuracy: No uncomfortable moulds are required.
- Improves bite alignment: Helps maintain a balanced and even bite.
- Comfortable fit: Custom-made to feel natural in the mouth.
5. Less Post-Treatment Sensitivity
Unlike traditional filling, which can make teeth sensitive to hot and cold, inlays and onlays make a better barrier or bed for protection.
- No direct exposure to the nerve: the sensitivity due to temperature will be reduced.
- Better adaptation to natural tooth structure: Ensures a snug fit, thereby preventing irritation.
- Stronger adhesion: Creates an external barrier, sealing the tooth from the external stimulus.
- Improves overall comfort: You are able to eat and drink with minimum sensitivity.
These advantages make dental inlays and onlays an even more attractive option for long-term dental restoration.
Who Should Consider Dental Inlays and Onlays?
The demands for inlays and outlays have only been rising in the past few years. These treatments are especially beneficial for:
- Anyone prioritising aesthetics in the form of a natural-looking solution that blends seamlessly with existing teeth.
- Individuals with moderate tooth decay or fractures.
- Those seeking a conservative alternative to crowns.
- Individuals who prefer durable, aesthetically pleasing solutions.
- Individuals with large fillings that need replacement.
- People who grind their teeth (Bruxism).
For residents of St Clair, consulting a top Orthodontist like Your Healthy Smile at 154 Bennett Road can help you determine whether this option is suitable for your dental needs.
What to Expect During The Procedure?
Dental procedures are known to induce anxiety in some individuals. However, caring and highly professional Orthodontists like the ones at Your Healthy Smile will give an unmatched experience.
The inlays and onlays procedure usually requires at least two visits. It is also important to note that the whole procedure is painless, as it encompasses local anesthesia, which ensures pain-free sessions.
- First Visit:
- Removal of the decayed and damaged tissues by the dentist from the tooth for preparation.
- Obtaining impressions for preparing a custom restoration.
- A temporary inlay or onlay may be placed to protect the tooth.
- Restoration is sent to a dental laboratory for its fabrication.
- Second Visit:
- The permanent restoration is bonded to the tooth using a high-strength dental adhesive.
- Fit is checked and adjustments are made to ensure comfort
- A final polish to ensure an even finish.
- The dentist then provides aftercare instructions for it to last.
How to Maintain Dental Inlays and Onlays
Caring for your dental inlays and onlays is straightforward and can be done by:
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing regularly to prevent plaque build-up around the restoration.
- Avoiding the temptation to bite hard objects, such as ice or pens.
- Limiting sugary foods and acidic drinks
- Visiting your dentist every six months for routine check-ups and cleaning.
By following these practices, you can extend the lifespan of your inlays and onlays and maintain a healthy smile that you and we are looking out for!
Final Thoughts
Dental inlays and onlays cost represent a durable, aesthetically pleasing and scientifically advanced solution for tooth restoration. Whether you’re dealing with a decayed molar or a fractured cusp, these treatments offer a lasting answer to your dental concerns.
However, finding a Dental Professional who can do so with the perfection and the special attention you deserve can be challenging.
Your Healthy Smile is Where Ultimate Satisfaction Lies
Why “fill” your life with dental worries when you can “inlay” confidence into your smile? Reach out to us at Your Healthy Smile today to explore the benefits of inlays and onlays customised to your needs with personal care that is unmatched.
With consistently high ratings on search engines and testimonials from hundreds of smiling individuals, you can never go wrong with us when you search for “best dentist near me” on your devices.
FAQs
1. Are onlays durable?
Yes, dental onlays are highly durable and designed to withstand everyday chewing forces. Made from materials like porcelain, composite resin or gold, they offer superior strength compared to traditional fillings. With proper care, onlays can last for decades without cracking or wearing down.
2. How long do inlays and onlays last?
On average, dental inlays and onlays last between 10 to 30 years, depending on factors like material choice oral hygiene and chewing habits. Regular dental check-ups and avoiding excessive pressure (such as teeth grinding) can extend their lifespan significantly.
3. What is the main difference between an inlay and an onlay?
The key difference lies in coverage. A dental inlay fits within the grooves of a tooth without covering its cusps, while a dental onlay extends over one or more cusps, providing additional reinforcement. Both are used to restore damaged teeth but differ in how much of the tooth structure they protect.
4. Can inlays and onlays be repaired if damaged?
Minor damage to dental inlays and onlays can sometimes be repaired using dental bonding. However, if the damage is extensive, a full replacement may be required. Regular check-ups help detect any wear or fractures early.
5. Can inlays and onlays be used on front teeth?
While dental inlays and onlays are primarily used on molars and premolars, they can be applied to front teeth if necessary. However, for purely aesthetic concerns, veneers or bonding may be a more suitable option.
6. Are inlays and onlays better than traditional fillings?
Yes, in many cases. Inlays and onlays provide a stronger, longer-lasting solution than traditional fillings. Unlike composite fillings, which may shrink over time, inlays and onlays are custom-made for a precise fit, reducing the risk of future decay or fractures.