Dental Inlays
Dallas, TX – Cosmetic dentistry has made great strides in recent years with new tools and techniques being used all the time. These advancements allow cosmetic dentistry to repair most problems with patient’s teeth and improve their smile and appearance. One of the procedures that is used quite often is the dental inlay and this can make a damaged tooth look new if properly applied.
A dental inlay or overlay is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that is used to repair a damaged tooth. It is similar to a filling in that it is used to fill a cavity that has been discovered in a tooth. It is considered a more conservative approach to tooth repair than a crown would be since less of the original tooth needs to be removed to utilize an inlay. The dental inlay provides an excellent option for a patient with mild to moderate tooth decay and will last for years with proper cleaning and care.
The dental inlay is considered an indirect procedure because it is normally not done completely in the dentist’s office. Instead, an impression will be made of the patients tooth and sent to a specialized dental lab where the dental inlay will be crafted. The dentist will install a temporary inlay in the damaged tooth while the final inlay is being made. When the dental inlay is completed, a second visit will be scheduled and the temporary inlay will be removed and the finished inlay will be secured in place with the use of dental adhesives.
Dental inlays can be made of various materials and the most popular are porcelain, gold and ceramic resin. The kind of dental inlay the cosmetic dentist chooses depends on the patient’s preference and the position on the tooth where the repair is being done. The most popular material used is porcelain since it is the closest in color to the original tooth and provides excellent bonding capabilities. These dental inlays can be created to perfectly match the color of the original tooth and once applied to the damaged area of the tooth; they are virtually invisible and look like the original tooth. The inlay cost and quality can vary between dentists and is based on the experience of the dentist and the amount or position of the repair needed for the tooth. Even though a dental inlay may be more expensive than a standard filling, it will normally last longer and provides a better looking repair, especially if it is on your front teeth. Dental inlays are also covered by many insurance plans so be sure to check with your insurance provider to see if they are an option for you.
Dental inlays are a relatively painless procedure and cause no more discomfort than a normal filling for the patient. The provide a much more natural looking repair as well since they perfectly match the color and shape of the original tooth and will provide years of trouble-free use with the proper care. If you need to have a tooth repaired, ask about a dental inlay at your next visit with your dentist.
Biographical Info: Phillip Crum is the Chief Idea Officer of Sir Speedy Walnut Hill located at 2414 Arbuckle Court Dallas, TX 75229, and is committed to the idea of helping small business owners do a better job of finding their next customer or client. He also runs a local search marketing firm, MarketingMeasure and employs those additional capabilities in the overall marketing services menu of offerings. Phillip can be reached at 214-213-7445, or pcrum@MarketingMeasure.com.