Dental inlays and onlays are common dental procedures for many people used to repair the surface of a tooth.
While each procedure is different and used for different functions, they are commonly mistaken as their names are similar.
Continue reading for an answer to the question what are inlays and onlays, as well as to learn more about which procedure would be right for you. If you would like to schedule a dental consultation at an upscale, modern dental studio, get in touch with The Chicago Dental Studio today to book an appointment at a studio that will revolutionize the way you view dentistry.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are procedures that are used to treat specific dental issues. Dental inlays are used when a cavity is too large for a filling to be an adequate solution while onlays are used to protect the cusps from future decay.
Both are solutions to tooth decay that are utilized instead of fillings or crowns in many cases. While inlays deal mostly with the decay in the center of a patient’s tooth, onlays treat the cusps. An inlay is useful for filling cavities that are too large to be remedied by a regular dental filling while an onlay can be fitted to the specific grooves of a patient’s tooth and then administered to prevent future decay to the exterior of the tooth.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays for Teeth
Dental onlays and inlays are extremely useful treatment options for patients who are dealing with tooth decay.
They are beneficial because they can be used to fill larger cavities that cannot be treated with fillings and which would otherwise be left untreated. On top of this, inlays and onlays can strengthen your natural teeth as they provide reinforcement and remedy potential decay. Inlays and onlays can also be useful in increasing the lifespan of your natural teeth, helping you avoid needing dentures to replace teeth.
And lastly, inlays and onlays improve your overall oral health and hygiene. Tooth decay is extremely harmful to the longevity of your teeth and contributes dramatically to dental disease. Inlays and onlays can be used to fill in cavities and prevent further decay and dental disease.
How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last?
Inlays and onlays can vary dramatically in how long they last. While some can last five years, others can last upwards of two decades. If you are looking for a long-term solution that won’t need to be replaced any time soon, speak with your dentist about the possibility of getting inlays or onlays that will last a decade or longer.
How to Maintain Your Dental Restoration
If you are looking for ways to maintain your dental restoration, here are seven tips for ensuring that your restoration lasts as long as it can.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Use a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss your teeth daily
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that cause decay
- Avoid smoking, drinking staining liquids (such as red wine or coffee), staining or acidic foods, and tobacco chewing
- Visit your dentist regularly
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth
Cost of Inlays and Onlays
The cost of inlays and onlays is highly dependent on a number of factors (the severity of your tooth decay, the quality of the studio where you are getting your inlays and onlays done, whether the studio accepts dental insurances, etc.).
If you would like to find out how much inlays or onlays will cost you, get in touch with The Chicago Dental Studio to schedule a consultation for your dentistry needs.
Contact The Chicago Dental Studio Today
If you are looking for a modern, upscale studio where you can feel pampered while getting your dental needs taken care of, get in touch with The Chicago Dental Studio today.
Here at The Chicago Dental Studio, our team of dental professionals are passionate about redefining dentistry and creating an environment where our patients can feel comfortable and confident that they are getting the premium dentistry that they deserve.
At our dental studio, we can help you decide on the best form of dental treatments for your teeth. Whether you need dental inlays or onlays we can help you find out how to take care of your teeth so that your smile reflects who you truly are.
Get in touch with The Chicago Dental Studio today to learn more about our high-end services or to schedule your appointment with one of our dentists.
