If you have teeth that are irregularly-shaped due to injury, then you may want to invest in some cosmetic surgery. There are a few different options available to you to fix the tooth, and an inlay may be your best choice if there is an indentation or cavity that needs filling. Keep reading to learn more about inlays and the positive aspects of the procedure.

What Is An Inlay?

An inlay is similar to a filling in that an artificial material is used to fill in a space in a tooth. However, fillings are made from pliable materials that can be injected into a tooth and hardened in the dental chair. An inlay is not made in the dental office; it is instead created in a laboratory. Sometimes the inlay is made from porcelain, but it may be formed from resin as well. 

Before the inlay is created, the cosmetic dentist will smooth out the space in the tooth and decay will be removed if there is any present. A mold is then made, and the color of your tooth is examined and reported to the laboratory facility. The inlay is then created and cemented into the tooth once it arrives at the dental office. 

If the cusp of your tooth is damaged, then an inlay may not be appropriate. In this case, an onlay will be formulated. An onlay is similar to an inlay, but it is meant to rebuild the cusp in regard to its shape and structure. 

What Are The Benefits Of An Inlay?

Resin composites can also be used to fill in a tooth if you want an unnoticeable repair. However, a lab created inlay does have some benefits over a traditional filling. The inlay will be stronger than a filling which means it will last longer. While fillings do need to be replaced or adjusted, inlays can often last forever. 

Inlays can also be made to exactly match the color of your tooth, and if porcelain is used, it will also retain the natural luster. 

Inlays fit better too and reduce the chances of bacteria and debris getting caught around the edges of the restoration. Infections are far less likely for this reason, and the chances of cavities developing around the restoration are minimized. 

If you want to know more about inlays and other types of dental restorations, make sure to speak with your cosmetic dentistry office. 

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