When it comes to restoring damaged teeth, patients today have multiple options. Inlay dental is one such advance solution that bridges the gap between traditional fillings and full dental crowns. Designed for treating moderate tooth decay or damage, inlays help maintain both the structural integrity and appearance of your teeth without excessive reshaping.
If your dentist has recommended a tooth inlay, or if you’re simply curious about the process, this blog will explain everything you need to know about what is dental inlay and how it can benefit you.
Table of Contents
What is Dental Inlay?
Inlays/onlays are types of dental restoration procedures that repair damaged teeth. Unlike traditional fillings molded inside the cavity, inlays are custom-craft in a dental lab and bonded to the tooth for a precise fit and stronger support. These procedures are mainly recommend in case of extensive damage for which a dental filling may not be suitable.
Key Benefits of Dental Inlays:
- More durable than standard fillings
- Preserves the natural tooth structure
- It provides a natural, seamless look
- More powerful bite force with improved stability
What Are Dental Inlays and Outlays Made Of?
Dental inlays and outlays are made up of a variety of materials. Depending on your oral condition and tooth requirement, a dentist may recommend an inlay made up of any of the below materials:
- Composite Resin
Composite resin is a tooth-colored material that is highly popular because it blends seamlessly with natural teeth, resulting in aesthetically pleasing results.
- Porcelain
Porcelain is highly recommend for its strength, durability, and natural appearance. A porcelain inlay may be ideal if you are looking for a visually pleasing and durable option.
- Gold
Lately, metal or gold options have been less popular due to their conspicuous appearance and more advanced options. However, if considered, gold also provides excellent durability.
Dental Inlay vs. Outlay: What’s the Difference?
Many people may be confuse between inlay and outlay. Understanding the difference is essential to appreciating its applications.
| Feature | Inlays | Outlays |
| Coverage | Restores and fits within the tooth grooves | It is an extensive procedure and restores the tooth cusps |
| Use | Moderate tooth decay within the center | Extensive damage extending over the biting surface |
| Strength | Restores normal bite force | Strengthens the outer structure of the tooth |
What are the Benefits of Inlay Dental?
An inlay provides plenty of benefits over traditional dental restoration procedures. This includes:
- Preservation of Natural Tooth Structure: Unlike other dental restoration techniques, including crowns, which require changes to the tooth structure, inlays preserve a larger chunk of your natural tooth structure. This helps give a natural finish to your damaged teeth.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: Inlay dental uses composite resin and porcelain materials, which seamlessly blend with your natural teeth and provide an aesthetically pleasing outcome.
- Increased Strength and Durability: An inlay is made of strong materials, including composite resin or porcelain, which helps restore your tooth’s natural integrity and withstand biting force.
- Improved Fit & Comfort: Designed for a perfect fit, reducing irritation and bite misalignment.
- Less Prone to Staining: Materials like porcelain and composite resin resist discoloration over time.
The Inlay Dental Procedure: What to Expect
Getting a dental inlay and outlay is relatively straightforward. They aim to preserve the natural integrity of the tooth structure.
The inlay dental procedure is simple and typically completed in two visits:
- Initial Examination & Tooth Preparation:
- The dentist removes decayed or damaged parts of the tooth.
- A digital or physical impression is taken to ensure a perfect custom fit.
- Custom Inlay Creation:
- The inlay is craft for precise color and fit matching in a dental lab.
- A temporary filling may be place to protect the tooth.
- Final Placement & Bonding:
- The dentist permanently bonds the inlay to the tooth surface.
- Any adjustments are made to ensure comfort and functionality.
Takeaway
Inlay dental is an excellent option. It offers superior strength, durability, and a natural look, ensuring your teeth remain healthy and functional for years. Whether you have tooth decay or damage or need to replace old dental filling, inlays/outlays can provide a cosmetically appealing solution.
Get Your Dental Inlay at Brooklyn Blvd Dental!
A dental inlay can restore strength and appearance without extensive treatment if you have a damaged tooth. At Brooklyn Blvd Dental, we provide custom inlays that blend naturally with your teeth, ensuring a long-lasting and comfortable solution.
Schedule your appointment today or call (763) 533-8669 to get started.
