Looking to understand the difference between a dental inlay and a regular filling? Dental inlays are one of many restoration options that general dentists offer patients who are suffering from a damaged tooth. Another common option is a dental filling, which has varying characteristics but offers a similar outcome.
Long ago, there were very limited options when it came to restoring teeth. However, modern technology has allowed for the improvement and development of many restoration options, thus making it hard to know which is best for your individual situation. Thankfully, general dentists can be of help. Keep reading to find out more about dental inlays and fillings.
Below is a quick overview of dental inlays and fillings, both of which are used to restore teeth that are in poor shape. This information can be helpful to review when considering different options.
Dental inlays are similar to fillings, however, they are considered an indirect restoration and they can address bigger cavities in the teeth. Unlike fillings, a dental inlay is crafted outside of the tooth and custom-done. This means that a dental lab makes the inlay and then the general dentist applies it using bonding.
Material options for dental inlays include gold, porcelain, or composite resin. Composite resin is typically used for more temporary fixes, while gold and porcelain are much more durable.
A dental filling is a procedure done to literally fill a tooth that has a cavity in it. The filling material itself is made of gold, porcelain, plastic, composite resin, silver amalgam, or dental glass. Gold and silver amalgam are strong materials, but they do draw attention to the mouth as they are metal-colored. Porcelain is the most common choice as it is discreet due to its white color, but also very strong.
Dental fillings are recommended when a tooth has a minor to moderate cavity. Additionally, they can be used to restore teeth that have been chipped or cracked, so long as the size is small.
When trying to decide whether to choose a dental inlay or filling, it is best to consider a few things. Ultimately, the general dentist will make the final call, however, the following aspects are taken into consideration:
When trying to decide between dental inlays and fillings, it is best to consult directly with a general dentist. Questions and concerns about both procedures can be addressed and an evaluation can be performed in order to determine which option is best. Reach out today to learn more about dental inlays or to get scheduled for an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drroberttamaki.com or call Dr. Robert B Tamaki, DDS at (310) 402-0156 for an appointment in our Los Angeles office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
General dentists' primary aim is to ensure optimal oral health, meaning the entire mouth. Therefore, they recommend various services to ensure the longevity of your natural teeth and surrounding structures. Take a look at the five preventative services we offer.Routine evaluations are recommended for all individuals, regardless of age. The American Dental Association, or ADA,…
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, cosmetic dental services can be a game-changer. These treatments go beyond just improving aesthetics; they can enhance both your oral health and smile quality. If you are still on the fence about receiving a cosmetic dental service, here are six reasons to take the first…
Laser dentistry is a modern practice used for a number of dental procedures, ranging from root canals to oral cancer screenings. One of the most common laser dentistry procedures is gum reshaping, which has grown in popularity for both cosmetic and restorative purposes. When gum reshaping is chosen for cosmetic purposes, patients are typically hoping…
Full mouth reconstruction involves replacing and repairing damaged or missing teeth. A treatment plan includes a variety of different treatments, and one common procedure is known as dental bridge treatment. This review takes a closer look at how general dentists use dental bridges to replace teeth during full mouth reconstruction. Most patients have several available treatment…