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Teeth Inlays and Onlays in Greenville, SC
Everyone knows that caring for your teeth is essential for maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile for life. Unfortunately, practicing good oral hygiene habits alone isn’t enough to prevent cavities from developing. When this occurs, it’s best to seek professional dental care as soon as possible to restore your smile with a restorative dental treatment, such as a dental inlay or onlay. Here’s what you should know about dental inlays and onlay.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays Used For?
Dental inlays and onlays are restorations used to treat cavities that are too large to be fixed with a traditional filling while not being severe enough to require a dental crown. They are custom-made to fit your damaged tooth’s specific size and shape securely. Inlays and onlays can provide many oral health benefits, including:
- Maintaining the natural aesthetic of your tooth
- Restoring the comfort, normal function, and overall health of your tooth
- Don’t require the tooth to be altered as much as a dental crown may require
What’s the Difference Between Inlays/Onlays and Fillings?
A dental inlay restoration is usually made from porcelain or ceramic, that is used to fill in large cavities and completely covers your molars’ chewing surface. Like an inlay, a dental onlay is a restoration made from porcelain or ceramic that’s used to fill in large cavities. However, it covers the surface of the tooth and one or both of the cusps of the tooth. Dr. Gould will determine if an inlay or an onlay would be a better option for you, depending on the condition of your tooth and the extent of the decay present.
How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last?
How you care for your inlay or onlay can impact how long your dental restoration lasts. You can expect your dental inlay or onlay to last as long as two or three decades with excellent oral health habits.
The best way to keep your inlay or onlay in great shape is to prioritize good oral health habits, including:
- Brushing your teeth two times a day
- Flossing and using mouthwash every day
- Limiting your consumption of foods that can cause cavities, such as soda and chewy candies
- Visiting the dentist every six months for routine check-ups and professional cleanings
Cost of Inlays and Onlays
The cost of your dental inlay or onlay will depend on what your dental insurance policy covers. Please contact our office to learn more about your dental insurance plan.
Inlays and Onlays in Greenville, SC
Tooth decay can affect anyone, regardless of how often they brush their teeth. Visiting the dentist twice a year is a small step that can make a big difference in your long-term oral health. When dental concerns are caught early, treatment tends to be easier, less painful, and more affordable. If you’re diagnosed with a cavity that’s too big for a traditional filling but too small for a dental crown, the friendly team at Trail West Family Dentistry can help restore your smile with a dental inlay or an onlay. These procedures can also be performed in one appointment only with our Cerec milling technology. Contact us today to learn more about how these dental restorations can benefit you and schedule your next appointment.
We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy smile for life!