Inlay/Onlay

The inlay/onlay, or ceramic insert, is an improved version of composite fillings. A prosthetic restoration that should be used when the tooth has decayed to a lesser degree than 50%. After the decayed tooth tissue is removed, the doctor takes an impression, so that the dental laboratory can make a completely matching inlay, so that the tooth can be restored almost imperceptibly like a puzzle. Due to biocompatibility, aesthetic properties, choice of color matching the tooth and good mechanical resistance, ceramic inlays are an ideal choice for tooth preservation.

Advantages of dental inlays:

• Aesthetic appearance.
• Less bacterial plaque accumulates, as the surface of the insert is polished completely smooth
• They have high wear resistance.
• Ensuring stability in the remaining part of the tooth.
• Completely biocompatible material in the oral cavity.
• Ceramic inlays are almost invisible, as they are made in the same color as the teeth.
• Unlike metal fillings (silver amalgam), the insert does not deform as a result of use.
• By saving and strengthening decayed teeth, later more aggressive treatments can be avoided.
• The price of ceramic inlays will be lower than a possible ceramic crown later on.
• As a result of the inlay treatment, we get a completely natural smile.

Contraindications:

• If the patient's teeth are prone to decay and this occurs frequently;
• Caries requiring root canal treatment;
• Milk teeth;
• Bruxism;
• Occlusion intervention;
• If tooth more than 60% is carious. In this case, it is recommended to make a crown;

How are ceramic inlays made?

First, you need to get rid of decayed tooth tissue. The area where the insert will be placed is then lightly sanded. An impression is made, on the basis of which a plaster model is made, so that the laboratory can make a perfectly fitting inlay. While the insert is ready (this takes a few days), a temporary filling is placed.

The lifetime of the inlay directly depends on how the patient takes care of his teeth and maintains oral hygiene. Just like a crown or filling, a ceramic inlay can crack or fall out over time. To avoid this, visit the dentist twice a year for a check-up, use dental floss and brush your teeth twice a day, then you will have a beautiful smile for a long time.