Dental inlays are a treatment option used to rebuild, renew and restore teeth that are in bad shape. They often get overlooked as they are not used as commonly as dental fillings or crowns. Nonetheless, they are a great option for treating molar teeth that are damaged due to injury, decay or even discoloration. Keep reading to learn more about why dental inlays are needed. 
Why do I need a dental inlay?
Outlined below are a few reasons why a dental inlay may be needed. This information should be reviewed when trying to better understand a dentist's recommendation.
Cavity treatment
Dental inlays are most commonly used to treat cavities. When the teeth become infected, the result is an empty space or cavity, which has to be addressed appropriately. Inlays are a great option for moderate to severe cavities as they can cover more of the tooth than a dental filling could.  Dental inlays are known to last longer than fillings, which makes them a great choice when considering what type of restoration to undergo. 
Crack or fill solution
When the molar teeth become cracked or chipped, there is a need to undergo repair. Since these teeth play such a vital role in eating, it is necessary that they are strong and reliable. This is where a dental inlay is a great solution. The inlay can be placed to cover the crack or chip, which not only restores the tooth but makes it look better too. 
Stain covering
Molar teeth are prone to staining as they are responsible for grinding and chewing food. Because of this, the teeth themselves may discolor over time, resulting in a need for a solution. One option is to have a custom-crafted dental inlay placed, which can be made of porcelain or composite resin, both of which offer a natural appearance since they are white in color. 
It is hard to whiten the cusps and in between of molar teeth as they are responsible for so much. The whitening agents would not last long because the bite area of each molar tooth is constantly being used to chew. Additionally, whitening products can cause sensitivity and pain within the cusps. However, with a dental inlay, stains can be covered, which eliminates any discoloration. 
Strengthening measure
Dental inlays can be used to strengthen molar teeth that are weak due to bruxism or normal wear and tear from eating. Dentists can evaluate in between the cusps and determine how big of an inlay is required in order to appropriately restrengthen the surface. Once crafted and placed, individuals are much more likely to experience a longer-lasting tooth that does not require other care in the future. 
Get scheduled for a consultation
Curious about dental inlays? Working with a general dentist is the best place to start. An evaluation can be done in order to determine the most appropriate course of action. Additionally, patients can ask questions and go over concerns that they have. Reach out today to find out more or to get scheduled for a consultation appointment. 
Request an appointment here: https://www.kennethbauerdds.com or call Kenneth J Bauer DDS & Daniel K Bauer DMD - Kenneth J Bauer DDS, A Professional Corporation at (707) 691-5250 for an appointment in our Santa Rosa office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Inlay in Santa Rosa, CA.
 
Recent Posts
Getting a dental filling is a common procedure where a dentist restores the integrity of a decayed or damaged tooth. After placing a filling, you need to take the correct steps during recovery to ensure its durability and long-term effectiveness. Avoiding certain activities and habits promotes long-term oral health and prevents potential complications.One of the…
Choosing a general dentist is an important and personal decision. This dental professional plays a significant role in helping you maintain your oral and overall health. Finding the right dentist for you can make all the difference in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make…
Talking to your general dentist about your dental anxiety can help start your dental appointment the right way. This condition can prevent you from getting the right dental treatments. Keeping it at bay is possible during the visit. Here are the details on how your general dentist can help relieve your dental anxiety.This is an…
A dental crown is a versatile restoration that can protect, strengthen, and enhance the appearance of a damaged or weakened tooth. When placed on a front tooth, a dental crown must meet both functional and cosmetic standards. Because front teeth are highly visible, material choice, fit, and aesthetic detail all become especially important. Understanding the…