Inlays and onlays are indirect dental restorations that repair damaged or decayed teeth. They are crafted from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold and are custom-made in a dental laboratory to precisely fit the prepared cavity in the tooth.

Inlays are used to fill cavities within the cusps of a tooth, while onlays are designed to cover one or more cusps, providing more extensive coverage than inlays. Both inlays and onlays offer durable and aesthetically pleasing solutions for restoring a tooth's function, strength, and appearance while preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. They are bonded to the tooth surface using dental cement, providing a seamless and long-lasting restoration that blends in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. For the best dental care, contact Summerland Dental. 

The Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Preservation of Tooth Structure 

One of the primary benefits of inlays and onlays in Summerland Key, FL, is their ability to preserve the natural tooth structure. They require the removal of minimal healthy tooth structure to accommodate the restoration. This conservative approach helps maintain the integrity and strength of the tooth while providing long-lasting restoration. 

Strength and Durability 

Inlays and onlays are fabricated from durable materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold, which are highly resistant to wear and fracture. These materials offer superior strength and longevity compared to traditional amalgam or composite fillings, providing lasting protection for the restored tooth against daily chewing forces and functional demands. 

Aesthetics 

Another advantage of inlays and onlays is their aesthetic appeal. These restorations are custom-made to match the tooth's natural color, shape, and contour, ensuring a seamless and lifelike appearance. Unlike metal fillings, which may discolor or detract from the smile's aesthetics, inlays and onlays harmoniously blend in with the surrounding dentition, enhancing the overall beauty of the smile. 

Customization 

Inlays and onlays are highly customizable restorations that can be tailored to meet each patient's specific needs and preferences. From material selection to shade matching and contouring, these restorations offer unparalleled versatility and precision, allowing dentists to achieve optimal results that blend in seamlessly with the natural teeth. For more information, contact us today!

The Procedure for Inlays and Onlays

The first step is to prepare the damaged or decayed tooth by removing any decayed or compromised tooth structure. The tooth is then cleaned and shaped to create space for the inlay or onlay restoration. An impression of the prepared tooth is taken using dental putty or digital scanners to capture the exact dimensions and contours of the tooth. This impression serves as a mold for fabricating the custom-made restoration. 

Our dentist in Summerland Key, FL, selects the shade of the inlay or onlay that closely matches the color of the patient's natural teeth. This ensures a seamless and natural-looking restoration that blends in with the surrounding teeth. The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians use advanced CAD/CAM technology or traditional techniques to fabricate the inlay or onlay restoration. The restoration is custom-made to fit precisely within or onto the prepared tooth structure. 

Once the restoration is completed, it is carefully placed and bonded to the prepared tooth using dental adhesive or resin. The dentist ensures proper fit, alignment, and occlusion before polishing the restoration to achieve a smooth and natural-looking finish. 

Aftercare and Maintenance of Inlays and Onlays

• Maintain regular oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque buildup and prevent decay. 
• Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that can damage or dislodge the restoration. Opt for softer foods and cut them into smaller pieces to minimize stress on the restoration. 
• Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings in Summerland Key, FL, to monitor the health of the restoration and promptly address any issues or concerns. Our dentist will examine the inlay or onlay during routine visits and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements. 
• If you grind or clench your teeth at night, wear a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect the restoration from damage caused by bruxism. 
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the bond between the restoration and the tooth structure, increasing the risk of failure. Avoid these habits to maintain the integrity of the restoration and prolong its lifespan. 

Inlays and onlays offer a conservative and durable solution for restoring teeth that have suffered moderate to extensive damage or decay. If you're considering inlays or onlays as a treatment option, visit Summerland Dental at 24986 Overseas Hwy, Summerland Key, FL 33042, or call (305) 745-1522 to discuss what option may be right for you. With their numerous benefits and versatile applications, inlays and onlays can help you achieve a healthier, more radiant smile that lasts a lifetime.