We all desire a beautiful, healthy smile. Unfortunately, decay, trauma, gum disease, and discoloration impact our smiles. However, it is possible to repair your teeth and rejuvenate your smile with inlays and onlays. Continue reading to learn why you may require dental inlays and onlays in St. Pete Beach.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
They are indirect restorations ideal for repairing a specific kind of tooth damage. Dental inlays and onlays are created from gold alloys, resin composites, or porcelain. Although gold is very durable, most patients prefer porcelain or ceramic for their inlays or onlays.
It is because they provide better aesthetics due to their tooth-like color. In addition, ceramic or porcelain can be fabricated and fixed on teeth within a single appointment. This is possible due to the CEREC device, which scans your tooth and creates restorations in a short time.
Inlays and onlays treat molars or premolars that are too damaged to support a filling but not too damaged to need a crown. The dentist near you will use inlays to fill pits and fissures in the chewing surface between the cusps. In addition, they will use an inlay to restore tooth damage on the chewing surface and cusps or tooth edges.
Why Would You Need Onlays or Inlays?
The dentist in 33706 can use inlays or onlays for several reasons, and some are highlighted below.
- They use onlays instead of a crown since they are less invasive. Also, the procedure conserves a significant portion of the tooth compared to a crown.
- The dentist will use inlays instead of fillings to protect against recurrent decay. In addition, inlays are resistant to occlusal forces. They also provide proper contouring to promote gum tissue health.
- Inlays and onlays restore large cavities and teeth weakened by failed fillings or cracks.
- The dentist may use them to avoid dental crowns during a root canal procedure. However, they are used when there is a sufficient tooth structure.
- They are used to fill deep cavities that reach beneath the gum line as they ensure a good marginal seal.
How Long Should Dental Onlays Last?
Dental inlays and onlays are a long-term tooth restoration. They are cemented to the tooth and sealed tightly to prevent further damage, infection, or inflammation. In addition, the restorations are made from damaged and degradation-resistant materials. Therefore, they should last as long as crowns and longer than conventional dental fillings.
Generally, inlays and onlays last between five and 30 years. However, they can last a lifetime with the right care and optimum oral hygiene. The dentist in St. Pete Beach recommends regular interdental cleanings and flossing for inlays and onlays. Also, reduce taking highly acidic, sugary, or dark-colored foods and beverages. They damage your restorations faster.
Attending regular dental checkups will ensure your inlays and onlays remain in great condition and last longer. In addition, the dentist will help prevent various issues. These include marginal leakage, staining, fracture, and de-bonding. They will also prevent tooth damage and disease. Finally, if your inlays or onlays need replacing, the dentist will perform the procedure fast.
How Much Do Inlays and Onlays Cost?
The cost of Dental inlays and onlays in St. Pete Beach varies depending on various factors. Your dentist will give you an estimated procedure cost during the initial consultation. These are:
- The material used to fabricate your restoration will determine the cost of treatment. Porcelain inlays and onlays are the most expensive, while resin ones are cheaper.
- The cost is also determined by the extent of treatment required. Repairing decay or damage on smaller areas is cheaper than repairing extensive areas.
- If you require sedation, the procedure will be more expensive compared to using local anesthesia only.
- Your dental insurance will determine your pay for the inlays and onlays. If you do not have insurance, the financing option you choose will determine the cost of the procedure.
- The dentist’s experience will also affect the cost of getting inlays and onlays. A skilled dentist must place them with the expertise for this technique-sensitive procedure. Contact us at Dental Arts St. Pete Beach if you need such a dentist. Our dentist, Dr. Cecilia Sorelle, will place your inlays and onlays properly to ensure they last a long time.
