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When Are Dental Inlay And Onlay Better Options Than Crowns?

When a tooth is damaged due to decay or trauma, it is important to repair it to maintain the tooth and prevent further damage. In some cases, a dental crown may be the best option for repair, but other options may be more suitable such as getting dental inlays and onlays in Oshawa, ON.

What is a Dental Inlay and Onlay?

A dental inlay or onlay is a restoration used to repair a small to medium-sized cavity. Inlays and onlays are made from porcelain or composite materials and are custom-made to fit your tooth. Unlike a crown, which covers the entire tooth, inlays, and onlays only cover the damaged portion of the tooth. These restorations are bonded to your tooth using dental cement.

Dental inlays and Onlays are an ideal option for repairing cavities because they:

  • Are less invasive than crowns (do not require removal of healthy tooth structure)
  • Can be completed in one visit (unlike crowns which usually require two visits)
  • Maintain the strength of your natural tooth
  • Are less expensive than crowns

Benefits of Dental Inlays and Onlays

There are several benefits of dental inlays and onlays over traditional crowns. They are less invasive, meaning less tooth structure is removed during the procedure. This can benefit patients who want to preserve as much of their natural tooth structure as possible. Composite onlays also tend to be more comfortable than crowns, as they do not require the placement of temporary crowns during the healing process. Finally, inlays and onlays can often be completed in just one or two visits to the dentist, while crowns typically require three visits.

When are Dental Inlays and Onlays Better than Crowns?

Dental inlays and onlays are good options for restoring teeth damaged by decay or injury. They are less invasive than crowns and can be used to preserve more of the natural tooth structure. Inlays and onlays can also be matched to the color of your natural teeth, making them less noticeable than crowns.

Inlays and onlays are usually recommended for patients with small areas of damage or decay. These procedures involve placing a custom-made filling in the damaged area of the tooth, which can help to restore its function and appearance. Inlays and onlays can also be used to prevent further damage or decay.

Dental crowns are typically recommended for patients with larger areas of damage or decay. Crowns are also often used to cover misshapen or discolored teeth. Unlike inlays and onlays, crowns encircle the entire tooth, providing additional support.

Risks and Complications of Dental Inlay and Onlay Procedures

There are risks and complications associated with dental inlay and onlay procedures. These include but are not limited to the following:

    • Infection at the site of the procedure
    • Damage to the surrounding teeth
    • Nerve damage
    • Allergic reaction to materials used in the procedure
  • Bleeding or swelling at the site of the procedure
  • Bruising or discomfort at the site of the procedure

Preparing for the Procedure

Your dentist will take x-rays and impressions of your teeth. These will create a model of your mouth so that the inlay or onlay can be custom-made to fit.

You will also be given a local anesthetic, and the dentist will remove any damaged tooth structure.

Next, the inlay or onlay will be placed in your mouth and bonded into place. Your bite will then be checked to make sure it is even. Finally, you will be given aftercare instructions and advised to avoid chewing hard foods or ice for 24 hours.

Aftercare Instructions

It is crucial to take care of it properly to ensure that your dental inlay or onlay lasts many years. Here are some aftercare instructions:

  1. Avoid chewing hard foods : Chewing hard foods can damage your dental inlay or onlay.
  2. Practice good oral hygiene : Brush and floss regularly to keep your inlay or onlay clean and bacteria-free.
  3. See your dentist regularly : It is important to visit Inlay Onlay Dental every six months for a cleaning and checkup. This will help ensure that your restorationa stays in good condition.

Schedule an Appointment

Dental inlays and onlays are great alternatives to crowns for restoring teeth that have suffered from cavities or damage. They provide a strong and aesthetic solution for such cases. Visit Harmony Dental Care for more information about dental inlays and onlays.

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