Reasons You Might Need a Dental Inlay

For a cavity, you go to a dentist to have it filled, but if the hole is large, the dentist might suggest a dental inlay instead. Although this dental solution is not new, many people do not know about the benefits it provides. Beyond correcting a cavity, an inlay does much more. Talk to your dentist to see if this is right for you.

A brief introduction of a dental inlay

For a cavity, a dentist uses amalgam, gold, or composite material to fill the hole. Since a tech can match the composite to a patient’s natural tooth color, this is the preferred option. But for a variety of circumstances, an inlay is the better choice. This pre-molded filling covers the crevices of a tooth.

When is a dental inlay required?

There are times when a filling would not work. If someone has a large hole in their tooth, a dentist would probably recommend a dental inlay. As a hard and long-lasting solution, this provides the natural tooth better support. In fact, people experience improved biting and chewing ability.

Beyond a large cavity, an inlay is a good option for a severely damaged tooth. That includes decay, trauma, and a tooth with serious wear and tear. Often, teeth grinding is the cause of the latter. In that case, the dentist might also recommend a nightguard, even with a new inlay.

In some cases, a tooth does not have enough natural material to support a crown. So, a dentist can use a dental inlay instead. And since it is possible to color the inlay to match a person’s natural tooth color, no one can tell the difference. An inlay even helps promote healthier gums.

Fillings first

All dentists try to salvage patients’ natural teeth. Usually, a filling is the only correction needed. However, when an individual’s tooth would not benefit from that, a dentist would then likely suggest a dental inlay. It all starts by getting an exam and having X-rays taken. That allows the dental professional to determine the right course of action.

A noninvasive procedure

Although most dentists opt for a filling first, getting a dental inlay is not invasive. This procedure takes little time to complete and the results are more than what most people anticipate. Then, considering an inlay increases a tooth’s overall strength up to 75% and that it will last as long as 30 years, this is a viable solution. So, if needed, a dental professional will use an inlay to correct an issue.

Take good care of yourself

Whether you end up with a dental inlay or not, it is important to take proper care of your teeth. That entails flossing and brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Also, you should reduce your sugar content as much as you can. And most importantly, get regular dental checkups. That way, your dentist can identify a problem early.

Request an appointment here: https://www.titandentalcare.com or call Titan Dental Care at (703) 745-3227 for an appointment in our Sterling office.

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