Understanding Dental Inlays and Onlays
Sun ,28/09/2008There are many types of tooth restoration procedures and treatments available in dentistry in Fort Lauderdale. Each of these procedures can prevent or treat certain dental problems to enhance, maintain or prevent the decay or damage of teeth. One of these treatments that are commonly done by dentists is the filling of dental inlays and onlays.
Dental inlays and onlays are restorations used to repair back teeth that have minimal to moderate damage. They are also a treatment method to save a tooth that is not totally damaged. Dental inlays and onlays are also used to restore cracked or fractured teeth that are not too severe to require dental crowns.
Materials used for dental inlays and onlays are porcelain, composite resin or gold. The type of material used for dental inlays and onlays depend on the need of the patient as well the recommendation of the dentist. All of the materials used in dental inlays and onlays are the same color as the natural tooth, making them an ideal replacement for metal fillings.
Inlays and onlays require less reduction to the tooth unlike traditional tooth fillings. Also, they do not expand or contract when exposed to changes in temperature. The use of inlays or onlays also helps strengthen the natural teeth. Dental inlays and onlays are more durable than other fillings, making them ideal an ideal restoration method.
The differences between dental inlays and onlays are very minimal. Dental inlays are often used on teeth that are damaged on the indented top surfaces. Dentists would also often use dental inlays to replace old or damaged metal fillings. On the other hand, dental onlays are used to treat damage or decay to one or more of the cusps. Cusps are pointed projections on the chewing surface of a tooth.
The placement of both dental inlays and onlays are basically the same. Patients would often have a couple of consultations with the dentist prior to the actual placement of the inlay or onlay. On the first visit, an impression of the affected tooth is taken. This is important to be able to match exactly the specifications of each patient.
Once the impression is made, it is then brought to a dental laboratory and technicians will create the permanent inlay or onlay. While waiting for the permanent inlay or onlay, the patient is provided with a temporary one to prevent any further damage to the affected tooth. Upon receiving the permanent inlay or onlay, the dentist from Cosmetic Fort Lauderdale will then place it on the damaged tooth.
The placement of a dental inlay and onlay has minimal to no down time so patients can return to their normal activity once the inlay or onlay is placed. Patients, however, may expect minimal tenderness in the tooth area. This tenderness, however, is only temporary.
