For many years, when you were dealing with a cavity, receiving a traditional dental filling was the way to go. And while this remains a very viable option today, there are other avenues available to you to explore too. Receiving a dental crown or dental inlays and onlays are two treatments that you may want to consider.
If you’re interested in acquiring more information about inlays and onlays in Shawnessy, our local dental practice is here to help. Give us a call today.
So … What is a Cavity?
Arguably, everyone knows what a cavity is –it’s a hole left behind in your tooth because of an infection or, more often, a buildup of plaque and tartar. If they are not treated within a certain amount of time, they can grow, damaging the entirety of your tooth’s structure, and can spread down to your pulp. If this happens, you’ll need to receive a root canal, maybe even a tooth extraction instead.
Dental Fillings vs Inlays and Onlays
A dental filling is just as the name implies: it’s an artificial filling that’s inserted into the hole in your tooth. This prohibits bacteria from continuing to gather and grow and helps strengthen your tooth.
However, sometimes, an ordinary filling isn’t suitable enough to remedy the issue. When your cavity is too large or too deep for the filling to seal, this is when you’ll want to think about getting an inlay or an onlay–it depends on where the cavity is located as to which is best.
A dental inlay is a seal that’s installed inside your tooth; a dental onlay is applied over the chewing surface of your tooth. This will help preserve the entire structure of your tooth and therefore, reinforce your smile.
Just like traditional fillings, inlays and onlays can be created from a variety of materials including metals like gold though silver amalgam is the most common, porcelain, or composite resin. Metal is more durable and will last longer, but porcelain and resin will blend in with the shade of your natural smile. So, when it comes down to it, it’s up to your preferences and what your dentist deems is best for your unique case.
To learn more about this process, get in touch with a dentist near you.
Receiving Inlays and Onlays
On average, two appointments are needed to have your inlay or onlays installed.
Once you arrive, your dentist in Shawnessy will get to work examining your mouth and taking a series of x-rays. Each of these measures allows them to establish an accurate image of your oral health in general and the extent of care that you need.
Next, impressions of your afflicted tooth are made. This information is delivered to the dental lab to help make your prosthetic. You’ll be given a temporary inlay or onlay to shield your tooth in the meantime. After two to three weeks have passed, your prosthetic will be ready, and you can come back to have it placed. Dental cement is utilized to keep it in position.
If you have any questions or concerns, let your dentist know so they can act accordingly.
Some dental clinics have CEREC technology, which refers to an advanced computerized system that uses high-quality images of your tooth to fabricate an inlay or onlay in just one day. Dental crowns can be made this way as well. As a result, you’ll be able to protect and improve your oral hygiene much quicker.
At Summit Dental, we offer convenient treatment for dental inlays and onlays near you. Come in or stop by our website to speak with one of our dentists and schedule a consultation today!