Dental inlays are a conservative dental restoration that occurs when there is extensive pain and is considered an alternative to the dental crown. The procedure is generally done in two sessions. A specialist of Cosmetic Dentistry in Honolulu should be contacted.
Procedure
During the first appointment, the dentist drills a hole into the affected tooth and makes a temporary inlay with a mold. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory, one that will build the inlay with the specified material. During the second session, the dentist cements the inlay in place.
Dental inlays are especially used in posterior teeth with moderate or fractured decay and in endodontic teeth, in cases where the damage is not extensive enough to need a crown.
Indications
They are indicated on:
* Teeth that are intact or need minimal restoration
* Teeth with a normal anatomical shape
* Patients with a low decay index
* Teeth with a crown longitude within the average
* When it is necessary to modify the occlusal surfaces in rehabilitation or problems of dysfunction
* Teeth that act as retentions of a removable partial denture
* Teeth with cavities that cannot be restored with another type of operation
Contraindications
Inlays are contraindicated in:
* Patients with a high decay index
* Teeth with extensive restorations
* When the dentist opts for a complete crown
* Teeth with deep cervical abrasions
* Teeth with short or thin clinical crowns
* Bell-shaped teeth
Materials
Several materials can be used to make a dental crown. There is no universal ideal material. The choice depends on several factors, including the location of the tooth and the aesthetics required. The options should be discussed during a Cosmetic Dentistry in Honolulu appointment.
A gold alloy inlay is the one that lasts the longest. It is very resistant to chewing forces, rarely breaks, and causes very little wear on the opposite teeth. A gold-fused porcelain crown is a more aesthetic form of the gold alloy.
Porcelain makes its appearance very similar to that of a natural tooth. The gold part, found below the porcelain, helps to give strength to the tooth. A porcelain crown or inlay is the option that is the most aesthetic. The appearance and color can match the qualities of natural teeth. Visit the site to learn more.
