Tooth Filling vs. Dental Inlay
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.
Understanding how a dental inlay compares to dental 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
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.
Dental fillings
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.
Which option is best?
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:
- The size of the cavity or damaged area
- The location of the tooth. Molars may require a dental inlay since it is a better solution for bigger problems
- Whether the tooth is a primary or secondary tooth. Baby teeth will fall out eventually, which means they may not need a permanent solution
Find out more from a general dentist
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://stunningsmilesoflakeforest.com or call Stunning Smiles of Lake Forest at (949) 258-7433 for an appointment in our Lake Forest office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Related Posts
Children need special dental care to support their oral health and development. Pediatric dentistry is important for keeping kids' teeth and gums healthy from infancy to their teenage years. A dental professional who is trained in pediatric dentistry can meet the unique needs of young patients, making it essential for parents to take their children…
Dental fillings protect oral health by repairing teeth compromised by cavities and decay, preventing further damage, and helping patients maintain comfortable, confident smiles. This essential treatment seals vulnerable areas, supports tooth structure, and stops bacteria from spreading deeper into tooth layers. By addressing cavities early and restoring compromised enamel, dental fillings preserve the longevity of…
Traditional metal braces and Invisalign® are two of the most common options for teeth straightening. Continue reading to discover the differences between Invisalign and traditional braces. When deliberating between the two options, you might ask questions about their effectiveness and cost. However, the goal is to choose the treatment option that would get the best…
If you have had braces in the past, you may want to try Invisalign® to correct any crooked teeth that shifted back. Read on to learn more. Fortunately, you can receive Invisalign aligners despite having already had braces. Interestingly, those who have to undergo teeth straightening for a second time usually go for Invisalign instead…