How to Look After for Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Maintaining oral health with dental inlays and onlays is essential for preserving tooth structure and functionality. These restorative treatments offer durable solutions for teeth affected by decay or damage, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and functional integrity. Understanding how to care for dental inlays and onlays can significantly impact their longevity and effectiveness. This guide explores practical tips and habits that promote optimal oral hygiene and ensure the continued health of these restorations, provided by Dr. Teeth Dental Care – Bay City.

What are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Dental inlays and onlays are regarded as indirect restorations because they are constructed outside of the mouth and then bonded to the tooth by a dentist. They are typically made from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold. The choice of material depends on factors like the location of the restoration, the extent of damage, and aesthetic preferences.

• Inlays: These restorations fit into the chewing surface of a tooth and are used when the damage does not extend to the cusps.
• Onlays: Also called partial crowns, onlays cover one or more cusps or the entire biting surface of a tooth. They are used when the damage is more extensive but do not require a full dental crown.

Importance of Caring for Dental Inlays and Onlays

Dental inlays and onlays are customized restorations utilized to repair teeth with moderate dental decay or damage. Unlike traditional fillings, which are molded into place during a dental visit, inlays and onlays are fabricated in a dental laboratory. This process allows for precise customization to fit the specific shape and size of the afflicted tooth.
The primary goals of inlays and onlays include:

• Restoring Tooth Structure: Inlays fit within the cusps (bumps) of a tooth, while onlays cover one or more cusps or the entire biting surface.
• Strengthening Teeth: They help strengthen teeth weakened by decay or damage.
• Preserving Natural Tooth Structure: In comparison to tooth crowns, inlays and onlays are a more conservative dental treatment option since they need less removal of healthy tooth tissue.

Caring for Dental Inlays and Onlays: Best Practices

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is pivotal for the success and longevity of dental inlays and onlays. Here are essential tips to follow:

• Brushing and Flossing Techniques: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush twice daily, using gentle circular motions. Pay particular attention to the gumline and around the edges of your inlays and onlays. Floss daily to eradicate plaque and debris from between teeth and around dental restorations.
• Using Fluoride Toothpaste: Fluoride fortifies tooth enamel and helps prevent decay. Choose a fluoride toothpaste recommended by your  Bay City dentist to maintain optimal oral health.

Wear a Nightguard

Protecting your dental inlays and onlays is crucial for maintaining their longevity and effectiveness. A nightguard is a custom-made dental device that cushions and protects teeth from the destructive effects of teeth grinding or clenching, often known as bruxism. This disease may put tremendous strain on dental restorations, perhaps causing them to chip, break, or wear out prematurely. Wearing a nightguard every night not only protects your natural teeth, but it also preserves the integrity of your dental inlays and onlays, ensuring they continue to operate efficiently for many years.

Attend Regular Dental Check-ups

Regular visits to the dentist near you are essential for checking the condition of your dental inlays and onlays. During these check-ups, your dentist will:

• Assess Oral Health: Check the condition of your inlays and onlays and evaluate the overall health of your teeth and gums.
• Professional Cleaning: Remove plaque and tartar buildup, especially in hard-to-reach areas around your dental restorations.
• Early Detection of Issues: Identify any signs of wear, damage, or decay early, allowing for prompt treatment to prevent further complications.

Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools

One of the most important aspects of caring for dental inlays and onlays is to refrain from using your teeth for tasks they were not designed for, such as opening packages, tearing tape, or biting nails. Utilizing your teeth as tools can exert unnecessary force and stress on both natural teeth and dental restorations like inlays and onlays. The restorations’ durability and efficacy might be jeopardized as a result of chips, fractures, or even their displacement. Dental inlays and onlays may last longer and keep your teeth healthy and effective if you use the right equipment for the job and don’t do things that put pressure on your teeth. This simple habit can prevent costly repairs and ensure that your dental work continues to protect and enhance your oral health effectively.

Quit Smoking

Smoking has damaging effects on oral health and can undermine the durability of dental restorations, including inlays and onlays. Smoking increases the risk of:

• Gum Disease: Cigarette smoke lowers blood flow to the mouth and gums, which weakens the immune system and makes it harder for the body to fight off diseases.
• Tooth Discoloration: Tar and nicotine in tobacco-containing products can stain teeth, affecting the appearance of dental restorations.
• Delayed Healing: Smoking delays the healing process, which can be problematic if you require any future dental treatments or procedures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, proper care of dental inlays and onlays is integral to maintaining oral health and preserving the longevity of these valuable restorations. By practicing good oral hygiene, wearing a nightguard, attending regular dental check-ups, avoiding improper use of teeth, and quitting smoking, patients can ensure the effectiveness and durability of their dental work. Looking for perfect inlays and onlays in Bay City, TX? Contact Dr. Teeth Dental Care – Bay City for expert advice and personalized care. Your oral health matters!