Taking good care of your teeth involves regular brushing, flossing, and checkups. But even with the best care, teeth can sometimes become damaged or decayed. When this happens, you may need restorative dentistry to repair the damage and keep your smile healthy. One option for restoring a damaged tooth is a dental inlay.
What is a Dental Inlay?
A dental inlay is a custom-made filling that is used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay, fracture, or wear. Inlays are made of strong, durable materials such as gold, ceramic, or composite resin. They are created in a dental laboratory and then cemented into the prepared tooth.
What are the Benefits of Dental Inlays?
There are several benefits to using dental inlays for tooth restoration. Inlays are:
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Strong and Durable: Dental inlays are made of materials that are strong and resistant to wear and tear. This means that they can last for many years with proper care.
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Custom-Made: Inlays are custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly. This ensures a good fit and a natural appearance.
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Conservative: Inlays require less removal of healthy tooth structure than other types of restorations, such as crowns.
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Versatile: Inlays can be used to restore a variety of tooth damage, including cavities, cracks, and chips.
When Would You Need a Dental Inlay?
Your dentist may recommend a dental inlay if you have:
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A moderate-sized cavity: Inlays are a good option for cavities that are too large for a filling but not large enough for a crown.
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A cracked or fractured tooth: Inlays can help to stabilize a cracked or fractured tooth and prevent further damage.
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A worn down tooth: Inlays can be used to restore the shape and function of a tooth that has been worn down by grinding or clenching.
The Dental Inlay Procedure
Getting a dental inlay typically involves two appointments. At the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damaged tooth structure. They will then take an impression of the tooth, which will be sent to a dental laboratory to create the inlay. At the second appointment, the inlay will be cemented into place.
Caring for Your Dental Inlay
Once you have a dental inlay, it is important to care for it properly to ensure that it lasts for many years. This includes:
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Brushing and flossing regularly: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food debris.
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Using a soft-bristled toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush will help to prevent damage to the inlay.
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Avoiding hard foods: Avoid chewing on hard foods, such as ice or hard candy, which can damage the inlay.
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Seeing your dentist regularly: See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Conclusion
Dental inlays are a durable and versatile option for restoring damaged teeth. If you have a tooth that needs to be repaired, talk to your dentist about whether a dental inlay is the right choice for you.
About Us | Dentist Davis, CA | Davis Dental Practice At Davis Dental Practice, we strive to develop long-lasting, trusting relationships with all of our patients. Click here to learn more about us and call today! Davis Dental Practice, 2800 5th Street, Suite 100 Davis, CA 95618, (530) 756-5300, davisdentalpractice.com, 7/18/2025, Page Terms:dentist Davis CA,
Taking good care of your teeth involves regular brushing, flossing, and checkups. But even with the best care, teeth can sometimes become damaged or decayed. When this happens, you may need restorative dentistry to repair the damage and keep your smile healthy. One option for restoring a damaged tooth is a dental inlay.