What are Dental Inlays –  A Comprehensive Guide

The most common cause of tooth damage is dental caries or tooth decay. There are various stages of tooth decay, and the treatment depends on the severity of the decay. When the decay reaches the innermost layer, it causes pain. However, there are many restorative options available when the decay is in the first two layers of the tooth. Dental inlay is one such option apart from the traditional fillings used for restoring the tooth. In this blog post, we will discuss briefly about dental inlay and how it is different from others – brought to you by Bangalore Dental Specialists.

What are Dental Inlays

A dental inlay is a pre-molded filling that fits inside the tooth. It is done when the decay is not extensive and is limited to the central portion of the tooth. An inlay is fabricated in the lab and fits into your tooth precisely. The traditional filling is directly applied to the tooth and can be used in cases of extensive decay. If the decay is not involving the margins and cusps we can restore the tooth by minimally preparing it for dental inlay. 

Benefits of Dental Inlays- What are Dental Inlays

There are several benefits of dental inlays, some of which are listed below.

Strength

Dental inlays are more durable and offer an increase in the strength of the tooth by 70 percent. It is an excellent choice for back teeth as it can endure pressure from biting force.  

Aesthetics

Inlays are made from tooth colored material making them an aesthetic choice.

Custom-fit

Due to its customized fit it offers great precision and perfect fit as per the structure of the tooth cavity. 

Longevity

The inlays are designed to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. They offer a long-term, reliable solution to tooth cavities. 

Tooth preservation

Inlays do not require any extensive tooth preparation, thereby preserving a lot of natural tooth structure. 

 

Inlays vs. Onlays

Inlays are done when the decay is limited to the central part of the tooth. When the cusps and margins are involved, we need a dental onlay. An onlay is basically a bigger restoration than an inlay and less than a dental crown.  

When is a Dental Inlay Indicated?

The choice for inlays depends on the following factors

Extent of Damage

When the tooth has decay or damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a crown.

Location of Damage

It is ideal for cavities situated in the tooth grooves, where fillings may not provide sufficient strength.

Preservation of Tooth Structure

When preserving the maximum amount of healthy tooth structure is a priority.

Post-Procedure Care for Inlays

To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your dental inlay, follow these care tips:

Diet 

For the first 48 hours, avoid foods and drinks that are very hot or cold to prevent sensitivity and ensure proper bonding.  

Oral Hygiene

Maintain a good routine by brushing regularly and flossing daily. Use the correct technique and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth. 

Regular Checkups

Schedule regular dental visits with us at Bangalore Dental Specialists to keep a track on the progress of your restoration.