Table of contents
1. What are the benefits of porcelain Inlay/Onlay fillings?
Porcelain Inlay/Onlay fillings bring many benefits as follows:
1.1. Aesthetically beautiful
One of the most significant benefits of porcelain inlays and onlays is their superior aesthetics. Porcelain closely matches the natural color of your teeth, making the restoration virtually invisible – meaning your tooth looks completely natural rather than a restoration. This is especially beneficial for front teeth, where aesthetics are important.
1.2. Durability and strength
Porcelain inlays and onlays are highly durable and can last for years, even decades, with proper care. They strengthen the tooth structure up to 75%, making them a great choice for teeth that have been significantly damaged. Unlike metal fillings, porcelain inlays/onlays will not expand or contract with temperature changes, reducing the risk of fracture.
1.3. Superior fit
Because porcelain fillings are custom-made in a dental lab, they are far more precise than traditional fillings. This ensures that they will feel just like your natural teeth.
1.4. Preservation of tooth structure
Another significant benefit of porcelain Inlays/Onlays is that less tooth preparation is required than with metal fillings. This means that more of your natural tooth structure can be preserved, contributing to long-term oral health.
1.5. Stain resistance
Unlike resin-based composite fillings, porcelain coatings are stain resistant. This means that dental restoration With porcelain Inlay/Onlay fillings, the natural color of the teeth will be retained longer.
1.6. Biocompatibility
Porcelain is a biocompatible material, meaning it is safe to use in the body. Porcelain Inlays/Onlays will not cause allergic reactions or irritation, making them a good choice for customers with allergies or sensitivities to metals.
1.7. Easy maintenance
Porcelain Inlays/Onlays can be easily cleaned with regular brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth. This makes them easy to maintain and contributes to their longevity.
2. How long does a porcelain Inlay/Onlay last?
With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years on average, making them a long-term dental restoration solution. However, longevity can be affected by a number of factors, including oral health habits, the location of the restoration in the mouth, the patient’s diet, and the dentist’s skill.
Regular brushing and flossing can help keep your restored teeth clean and free of bacteria that can cause cavities. Regular dental checkups are also important so your dentist can detect and address any problems early.
The location of a porcelain filling can also affect its longevity. For example, restorations placed on back teeth are often subjected to greater chewing forces, potentially shortening their lifespan.
Diet is another factor to consider. Sugary foods and drinks can cause tooth decay, while hard or crunchy foods can break a filling. It’s best to avoid these foods or eat them in moderation to prolong the life of your filling.
Ultimately, the skill and expertise of your dentist plays a major role in the longevity of your porcelain filling. A properly placed, well-fitted restoration can last longer than a poorly placed one.
3. How is porcelain Inlay/Onlay performed?
Let's dive into the step-by-step process on how to do it. fillings by porcelain Inlay/Onlay
3.1. Initial inspection and preparation
The first step in the process of getting a porcelain inlay or onlay is for your dentist to thoroughly examine your tooth. This is to assess the extent of the damage or decay and to determine whether an inlay or onlay is the best restorative option for you. Once the dentist has determined that a porcelain filling is appropriate, he or she will prepare the tooth by removing the decayed portion.
3.2. Impression and mold making
Once the tooth has been prepared, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth using dental impression material. This impression is then sent to a dental lab to create an exact mold of the tooth.
3.3. Fabrication of porcelain Inlay/Onlay fillings
The mold used to make the inlay or onlay is made from a block of high quality dental porcelain. The mold is shaped and polished in the lab to ensure perfect fit and color.
3.4. Computer-aided design (CAD)
Some dentists use computer-aided design (CAD) technology to design porcelain fillings. This process allows for extremely precise and personalized restorations.
3.5. Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
Once the design is complete, the data is sent to a milling machine to cut the porcelain filling. This process, called computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), creates restorations with custom precision.
3.6. Mounting and mounting
The final step is to fit and cement the inlay or onlay onto the patient’s tooth. First, the dentist will ensure that the restoration fits perfectly and make any necessary adjustments. Once satisfied, a special dental cement will bond the porcelain filling to the tooth. The porcelain filling is then polished again to a high gloss, blending perfectly with the surrounding natural teeth.
Although the cost of a porcelain filling may be a bit higher than a regular composite filling, the important thing is that porcelain Inlays/Onlays are a long-term investment in the beauty and health of your teeth. They provide a long-term and natural solution to restore damaged teeth, helping you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for many years.
