Restoring a tooth with an inlay
Usually, when it comes to restoring a tooth, we immediately think of placing a filling. However, if the tooth is too severely damaged, this method is not suitable. However, dentists have found a solution and can help by saving the tooth with a special ceramic inlay. It can repair significant damage, looks aesthetically pleasing, and lasts for years.
Ceramic inlays should not be confused with veneers, which are usually placed on the front teeth and have a more aesthetic function. Inlays, on the other hand, are placed on the masticatory teeth. Like veneers, they are fabricated in a dental laboratory according to an individual prototype.
When is a ceramic inlay necessary?
An inlay will be the salvation in those cases where a regular filling fails to save the tooth. Of course, we always say that it is important to visit the doctor in time, but you must admit that situations are different, and with modern dental restoration technology, you do not have to worry about having to extract the tooth and put in an implant when you can still save it.
The main disadvantages of having a ceramic inlay are two – it costs more than a filling (but also lasts much longer!) and you will have to visit the clinic twice because the inlay must first be fabricated in a lab environment. But this doesn’t matter as much compared to the fact that the tooth will stay in place and the process of decay will be reliably stopped.
Benefits of ceramic inlays
Saves a tooth from extraction An inlay can save a tooth even if it is half-ruined. The minimal space between the inlay and the tooth guarantees the reliability of the construction and the inlay is fixed so that the risk of secondary caries is practically reduced to zero.
High-strength Ceramics are very durable and do not require special care. It is sufficient to observe basic dental hygiene rules and the inlay will last 10-15 years, while a filling usually needs to be replaced after 3-5 years.
Looks natural The color of the ceramic is adapted to the individual patient and the inlay does not look like a foreign element. Ceramics do not darken, stain over time, lose their attractive appearance, and do not tarnish.
In addition to the usual restorative inlay, there are also core build-ups – these serve as a base for the crown and have a special root part in the form of a retention post. Your dentist will probably suggest an inlay if your tooth is severely damaged, as long as the root is intact.
How are inlays made?
At the DMC Tour dental clinic, inlays are made using a high-tech machine called CEREC. It can scan the defective cavity, mould an inlay individually for each patient, and based on a prototype turn it out of a single piece of ceramics. The inlay is then fired in a special furnace and bonded to the tooth. Everything is brilliantly simple!
How do I care for my inlay?
As we said before, the inlay does not require any special care. Of course, in the first days after insertion, you need to be careful to avoid mechanical pressure and eat solid foods, and hot and cold food. Later, brushing twice a day, flossing, flossing, professional hygiene and preventive dental check-ups will suffice.
Still, have questions? Ask us.
The final decision as to which method of restoring a decayed tooth is suitable for you will only be made by a doctor after a consultation and examination. We will always find the best solution for you to avoid losing your tooth, if possible.
