There are 185,897 dentist businesses in the U.S. Whichever you decide to choose, it's a good idea to learn about the dental services you could take advantage of to improve your oral health.
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, getting it repaired as soon as possible is essential. Not only does this protect your tooth from further damage, but it also helps you maintain a healthy and attractive smile.
Several options are available for repairing and protecting damaged teeth, including dental onlays, inlays, and crowns. In this article, we'll take a closer look at each dental procedure and help you determine the best option for you.
So read on!
Dental onlays are dental restorations used to repair damaged or decayed teeth.
Unlike fillings placed directly into the cavity, onlays are custom-made to fit over the top of the damaged tooth. This provides a more robust and durable solution for repairing a damaged tooth.
Onlays are usually made of porcelain or composite resin. Creators design them to match the color of your natural teeth.
Onlays are an excellent option for those with a moderate amount of damage to their tooth. They provide a more robust solution than fillings but are less invasive than crowns. They are also an excellent option for those who want to maintain the natural appearance of their teeth.
In addition to repairing a damaged tooth, onlays can replace missing tooth structures. This is because onlays can be custom-made to fit the shape and size of your tooth. They can improve the appearance of your tooth, for example, by straightening or enhancing the condition of your tooth.
When considering an onlay, it's crucial to view the location of the damaged tooth and the amount of damage that has occurred. Onlays are typically used on back teeth, as these are the teeth subjected to the most force and are, therefore, more likely to experience damage.
Dental inlays are similar to onlays in that they are a solution for damaged or decayed teeth. The main difference is that inlays are placed directly into the cavity of the damaged tooth, whereas onlays are placed over the top of the damaged tooth.
Inlays are made of materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold and are designed to match the color of your natural teeth. They are an excellent option for those who have a moderate amount of damage to their tooth and who want to maintain the natural appearance of their tooth.
Inlays are also a good option for cavities that are too large for a filling but not extensive enough to require a crown. They provide a more robust solution than fillings but are less invasive than crowns.
In addition to repairing a damaged tooth, inlays can also be used to improve the overall appearance of your tooth. For example, they can be used to straighten or improve your tooth's shape.
When considering an inlay, it's essential to view the location of the damaged tooth and the amount of damage that has occurred. Inlays are typically used on back teeth, as these are the teeth subjected to the most force and are, therefore, more likely to experience damage.
Dental crowns are a type of dental restoration that covers the entire tooth, from the gum line to the biting surface. Crowns often repair severely damaged or decayed teeth or protect weak or brittle teeth from breaking.
Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, resin, metal, and ceramic, and are custom-made to fit your tooth. Crowns can effectively restore the function and appearance of a damaged tooth and provide long-lasting protection.
In addition to repairing damaged teeth, dental crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are misshapen, discolored, or have gaps between them. Crowns can be color-matched to blend in with your natural teeth, giving you a beautiful, seamless smile. Crowns can also be used in cosmetic procedures, such as veneers, which involve placing a thin layer over the front of the tooth to improve its appearance.
The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two appointments.
During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any damaged or decayed tissue and reshaping it to make room for the crown. Next, an impression of the tooth will be taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where the crown will be custom-made to fit your tooth. At the second appointment, the dentist will place the crown over the prepared tooth and secure it with dental cement or dental bonding.
The best choice for you will depend on the extent of your tooth damage and your goals for oral health. For example, an onlay or inlay may be the best choice if your tooth is only slightly damaged or decayed. On the other hand, a crown may be the best option if your tooth is severely damaged or worn.
It is essential to speak with your dentist about your options. They will need to thoroughly examine your tooth before making a decision.
Your dentist will help you determine which procedure is best for you based on the extent of your tooth damage, your oral health goals, and your personal preferences.
In conclusion, dental onlays, inlays, and crowns are all effective options for repairing and protecting damaged teeth. The best choice for you will depend on the extent of your tooth damage and your oral health goals. Speak with your dentist to determine which procedure is best for you.
At Axiom Dentistry, we offer a full range of dental services. Learn more about our services today.