When a tooth needs a large repair on the chewing surface to replace an area of decay, an inlay is the right type of restoration in many cases. Made of dental composite, porcelain or perhaps other materials, a dental inlay from a San Diego Dentist Association member can help preserve a tooth that might otherwise need a crown or other more aggressive restoration.
Indeed, an inlay restoration is considered a safe and conservative approach to keeping a tooth healthy when a filling is ill-advised. Inlays can last for many years and are a strong, durable, custom-made choice that’s right in a variety of situations.
You may be a good candidate for an inlay restoration if you have:
- Certain kinds of breaks or fractures
- Decay on the chewing surface of a tooth
- A large filling that’s failing or broken
- A root canal that doesn’t impact the outside edges of a tooth
- Or certain other circumstances as well.
What’s Involved In Getting An Inlay?
Once you and your SDDA dentist have decided that an inlay restoration is the right choice, two appointments will do the job. At the first, the dentist will remove the decay or damage and take an impression of the tooth involved. This impression is sent to a dental lab where a precise replacement piece – the inlay – is made. A temporary restoration is put in place at this first appointment.
At the second appointment, the temporary restoration is removed and the permanent custom-made inlay restoration is placed. The dentist will check that you can bite, chew and speak correctly and can make adjustments if necessary. They will also give you details on how to take care of the inlay, which is similar to taking care of a natural tooth. The key to longevity is good oral hygiene, a smart diet and dental visits on the schedule your dentist suggests.
If you think an inlay restoration might be right for you, reach out to a San Diego Dentist Association member right away. The sooner your contact someone, the smaller and easier the restoration will be, in many cases. Quick action may save you money too. There are also other restoration choices available – because every dental and oral health problem has a solution, and everyone in and around San Diego deserves access to the right dental services for their needs.