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If you have dental decay or cavities, your dentist may have advised that you get a crown or a filling. However, currently, there are some other options available for you, namely dental onlays and inlays. Both inlays and onlays are regarded as “Indirect Fillings”, offering a solid support that fits the particular shape and size of your cavity. If you are looking for the best dental clinic in Bangalore for cavities or tooth decay, this article will help you get introduced to dental inlays and onlays and how to find best dental clinics near you.

What are dental inlays?

Dental inlays are made of solid, custom-made materials like gold or porcelain. Depending on your cavity size and depth, your dentist will either cast or mould your inlays into shape. Inlays are moulded to fit into your teeth grooves that do not extend over your tooth cusps.

What are dental onlays?

Like inlays, dental onlays are also custom-made solid materials, but larger than inlays and smaller than dental crowns. Dental onlays fills up larger cavities that extend over your tooth cusps.

What is the difference between a dental inlay and an onlay?

While inlays repair or reduce damages on your tooth’s surface, onlays, also known as partial crowns, treat larger areas.

What are the benefits of inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays offer several benefits like:

Better resistance to fractures and damages than what traditional cavity fillings offer
Resistance to stain
Improves your teeth’s natural appearance
Custom-made to fit your tooth structure, colour, and shape
Can last up to 30 years

What are the materials used for inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays can be made of different materials like:

Gold:

Advantages

Stronger and more malleable
Offers lower chance of fracture than traditional fillings
Stain-resistant

Disadvantages

Sticks out oddly among your natural teeth
Expensive

Ceramic (Porcelain):

Advantages

Strong and durable
Offers lower chance of fracture than traditional fillings
Blends in with your natural teeth colour
Stain-resistant

Disadvantages

More fragile than gold restorations
Despite its strength, due to its rigid characteristics, more prone to fracture

Composite Resin

Advantages

Stronger and less prone to fracture than traditional fillings
Blends in with your natural teeth colour

Disadvantages

More fragile than gold restorations
Less malleable than gold or porcelain restorations
Stain sensitive

What are the steps of inlay and onlay procedures?

1. Cavity filling removal, if needed in your case

2. Taking impression of your teeth (inlay/onlay mould)

3. Development of temporary filling placement

4. Final placement of inlay/onlay

Conclusion

Till date, inlays and onlays have been very under-utilized. Inlays and onlays have excellent restoration abilities that typically last for many years. After treatment with inlays or onlays, you only need a very short recovery time.

However, be cautious about the fact that your teeth are still susceptible to plaque and any oral microbial buildup over time. So, don’t forget to practise a good oral hygiene regime daily to keep your restorations clean and strong.

To know more, set up an appointment with the best dental doctor or visit a dental clinic in Bangalore today. For booking, call 18001020288 at Apollo Dental, Bangalore.

Are there any complications associated with using inlays and onlays?

Although inlays and onlays are considered very safe procedures with minimal side effects, few complications may arise during or after procedure such as: Allergies to materials used for inlays or onlays Tooth decay due to poorly-fitted or damaged inlays and onlays Extreme mouth pain Extreme sensitivity to heat or cold Bleeding gums Injuries to teeth, gums or tongue

Are there any diet Restrictions for inlays and onlays?

You should reduce sugar intake after going through inlay or onlay placement. You should also avoid acidic foods and drinks, like candy, coffee, dark fruits, processed foods, etc.

Do I need frequent check-ups after treatment with inlays and onlays?

You should routinely check up your inlays or onlay restorations by your dentist every six months, for signs of any leakage, damage or oral disease.