Looking to understand the difference between a dental inlay and a regular filling? Dental inlays are one of many restoration options that general dentists offer patients who are suffering from a damaged tooth. Another common option is a dental filling, which has varying characteristics but offers a similar outcome.
Long ago, there were very limited options when it came to restoring teeth. However, modern technology has allowed for the improvement and development of many restoration options, thus making it hard to know which is best for your individual situation. Thankfully, general dentists can be of help. Keep reading to find out more about dental inlays and fillings.
Below is a quick overview of dental inlays and fillings, both of which are used to restore teeth that are in poor shape. This information can be helpful to review when considering different options.
Dental inlays are similar to fillings, however, they are considered an indirect restoration and they can address bigger cavities in the teeth. Unlike fillings, a dental inlay is crafted outside of the tooth and custom-done. This means that a dental lab makes the inlay and then the general dentist applies it using bonding.
Material options for dental inlays include gold, porcelain, or composite resin. Composite resin is typically used for more temporary fixes, while gold and porcelain are much more durable.
A dental filling is a procedure done to literally fill a tooth that has a cavity in it. The filling material itself is made of gold, porcelain, plastic, composite resin, silver amalgam, or dental glass. Gold and silver amalgam are strong materials, but they do draw attention to the mouth as they are metal-colored. Porcelain is the most common choice as it is discreet due to its white color, but also very strong.
Dental fillings are recommended when a tooth has a minor to moderate cavity. Additionally, they can be used to restore teeth that have been chipped or cracked, so long as the size is small.
When trying to decide whether to choose a dental inlay or filling, it is best to consider a few things. Ultimately, the general dentist will make the final call, however, the following aspects are taken into consideration:
When trying to decide between dental inlays and fillings, it is best to consult directly with a general dentist. Questions and concerns about both procedures can be addressed and an evaluation can be performed in order to determine which option is best. Reach out today to learn more about dental inlays or to get scheduled for an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://dentistryinorovalley.com or call Dentistry In Oro Valley at (520) 833-5100 for an appointment in our Oro Valley office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Curious about dental crowns? Read on to learn more about this type of restoration. If a dentist determines that you need a dental crown, there are several reasons why they may make that suggestion. A crown is a common dental restoration to cover and protect a tooth with compromised structural integrity. Their natural appearance and…
A smile makeover is a process that involves one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures to make a person's smile look better. Some of the treatments include bonding, dental crowns, veneers, and tooth-colored fillings. In many cases, the procedure can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. The treatment options also depend on the patient’s individual condition.A…
As a parent, it is your job to protect all aspects of your child’s health. A children’s dentist can help you establish good dental habits early on in life so your child can have optimal oral care, which can be a link to other parts of their health. This article will give three basic tips…
Patients who are scheduled for a root canal may wonder whether such a procedure is necessary. A root canal can save your natural tooth and prevent you from needing a replacement, such as a dental implant or denture. So, while you might not choose to get a root canal for fun, it is a useful…
Curious about dental crowns? Read on to learn more about this type of restoration. If a dentist determines that you need a dental crown, there are several reasons why they may make that suggestion. A crown is a common dental restoration to cover and protect a tooth with compromised structural integrity. Their natural appearance and…
A smile makeover is a process that involves one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures to make a person's smile look better. Some of the treatments include bonding, dental crowns, veneers, and tooth-colored fillings. In many cases, the procedure can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. The treatment options also depend on the patient’s individual condition.A…