You may have heard about dental fillings and crowns used to repair decayed teeth. Fillings are restorations used when you have mild decay. Crowns, on the other hand, are used when the decay is extensive and extends to the pulp cavity.
But what happens, when you have a dental decay that is too large for the dentist to use a filling, but not too extensive to warrant the use of a crown? The dentist will recommend dental inlays and Onlays in Bayside, NY.
These are indirect restorations, meaning they are made in the lab and cemented on the teeth. They are used to strengthen the teeth and preserve your dental integrity. Before you seek dental inlays and Onlays near you, you need to know what they are and how they are fixed.
What Are Inlays and Onlays? Understanding Their Purpose
Inlays and Onlays are restorations used to repair a damaged tooth. The primary difference between the two is the number of teeth they cover.
Dental inlays are used when the decay is at the center of the teeth and does not extend to the outer edges. Your dentist can also recommend inlays if broken and fractured teeth that do not affect the edges.
Inlays are chosen over direct fillings because they are strong, durable, and longer shelf life. The direct fillings usually shrink once they are fixed, which increases the chances of it failing.
Dental Onlays are used when the decay extends to the outer edges of the teeth or cusps, but it’s not too extensive for crowns to be used. Onlays are available in different materials, but porcelain and composite are the most common because they resemble teeth.
How Are Inlays and Onlays Applied? A Step-by-Step Overview
Dental inlays and Onlays in 11361 follow the same procedure as dental fillings. The dentist will begin the procedure by examining the teeth to check the severity of the decay and choose a suitable treatment.
The decayed part is removed using air abrasion, laser, or drill. The tool used will depend on the severity and depth of the decay. The area is cleaned and examined if there is any decay remaining. Your dentist will then take a cast or impression of the drilled teeth to make the inlays and Onlays. The tooth is then covered with temporary restorations to protect against sensitivity.
After a couple of weeks, you come back to have the permanent restorations fixed. The dentist will remove the temporary ones, clean the area, and fix the inlays and Onlays. A special block of cement is used to hold the restorations in place.
How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last? Durability and Longevity
Dental inlays and Onlays are durable and can last for a decade or two with proper care. It is, however, important to care for the restorations by maintaining proper hygiene. The inlays and Onlays, though durable, can get damaged and give room for bacteria to fester. It is vital to get regular dental assessments and cleaning to keep the restorations intact.
The cement that holds the inlays and Onlays can become porous and cause them to come out. When this happens, visit a dentist near Bayside for immediate assessment and treatment. The dentist can easily reinsert the restoration on the teeth without causing damage.
Along with proper hygiene, it is important to avoid grinding and clenching of the teeth. Bruxism can cause the teeth and restoration to weaken and crack. If you suffer from bruxism, get a custom-made mouthguard that can protect your teeth from grinding. Also, chewy and hard foods can affect the longevity of the inlays and Onlays and it is advisable to avoid them.
What Is the Cost of Inlays and Onlays? Budgeting for Your Dental Care
Inlays and Onlays cost more than a filling and the cost will depend on a couple of factors such as the amount of restoration you need and the material used. But, in general, you can expect to pay between $250 to $1,500.
Ready to Improve Your Dental Health? Schedule an Appointment
If you would like to learn more about getting dental inlays and Onlays near Bayside, NY, visit Bayside Family Dentistry for more information.
