Inlays
 Tooth decay is a disease that is often caused by a combination of factors. In many cases, poor oral hygiene is to blame for this decay. However, failure to brush and floss properly cannot solely be blamed as the only cause of tooth decay. Some patients may simply be more prone to dental cavities than other individuals despite taking good care of their teeth.
Regardless of the cause of your cavities, sometimes tooth decay can advance to a point where it has exceeded the capabilities of a conventional dental filling. In these instances, we here at Century Dental may advise a dental inlay to help address the tooth decay and preserve the tooth.
What is a Dental Inlay?
When we meet a patient who has tooth decay, we typically have several different treatment options that we can offer them. While the first plan of action is typically a dental filling, in some cases, the existing tooth decay is so severe that a traditional dental filling will not be adequate for the affected tooth. In these cases, we like to recommend a dental inlay.
A dental inlay is a special type of dental restoration that is considered an indirect restoration. That means that instead of placing directly inside your mouth as part of the treatment for your tooth decay, we are manufacturing your dental inlay outside of your mouth. After it is created, only then is it placed over the affected tooth.
A dental inlay fits between the cusps of your teeth, on the flat surface between the points. They are custom created to fit perfectly over the affected part of your teeth and are a good option for patients who need advanced treatment but may not be a good candidate for a crown.
What Materials are Used in Dental Inlays?
Depending on the location of the affected tooth, we may recommend a variety of materials to you for your dental inlay. Common materials that we use in our office include gold, porcelain, and composite resin. Gold is strong and durable, but it is also quite visible and noticeable. On the other hand, the composite resin can be dyed to match your natural teeth. However, it can be brittle and fragile. For the best choice for both strength, durability, and attractiveness, then you may want to consider porcelain. It resembles your natural teeth and can be quite reliable.
What are the Advantages of Getting a Dental Inlay?
There are several key advantages to choosing a dental inlay over other treatment options. It is considered a more conservative approach, for instance, and is less invasive than other options like a crown. It can also preserve more of your natural tooth.
Dental inlays are also a fantastic fit over your existing tooth. They can help reinforce your affected tooth, helping to keep it sturdy and strong. Teeth that have received an inlay are also quite easy to keep clean and can be quite natural looking, making them a good choice for many patients.
If you suspect that you may have tooth decay and you would like to set up an appointment with us here at Century Dental, or you are simply interested in learning more about the benefits of dental inlay, please give us a call today at (971) 708-1608.
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