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Maintaining good oral health often involves more than just routine cleanings and exams. Sometimes, restorative treatments are necessary to repair damaged teeth and restore your smile’s function and appearance. One such treatment is dental inlays, which offer a conservative and durable solution for addressing tooth decay and damage. At Midtown Dental, we specialize in restorative dentistry, including the use of dental inlays, to help you maintain optimal oral health. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what dental inlays are, their benefits, how much inlays cost, and whether they are worth the investment.
What Are Dental Inlays?
Dental inlays are a type of restorative dentistry treatment used to repair teeth that have moderate decay or damage, typically in the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. Inlays are custom-made to fit the specific size and shape of the damaged area of the tooth, making them a more precise and long-lasting option compared to traditional fillings.
Unlike fillings, which are molded into place during a dental visit, inlays are fabricated in a dental lab using materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Once the inlay is ready, it is bonded to the damaged tooth, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing restoration.
Benefits of Dental Inlays
When considering restorative dental treatments, it’s important to understand the unique benefits that are offered. Below are some key advantages of choosing inlays over other options like fillings or crowns:
1. Superior Durability
One of the most significant benefits is their durability. Inlays are made from strong materials like porcelain or gold, which can withstand the pressures of chewing and grinding. This makes them a great option for restoring molars, which are subject to significant wear and tear over time. With proper care, dental inlays can last up to 10-30 years, making them a long-term solution for maintaining oral health.
2. Precise Fit
Since dental inlays are custom-made based on a mold or digital scan of your tooth, they offer a more precise fit than traditional fillings. This precision ensures the inlay will bond tightly to the tooth, reducing the risk of further decay or damage. The snug fit also helps to preserve more of the natural tooth structure, which is beneficial for overall oral health.
3. Aesthetic Appeal
Dental inlays, especially those made from porcelain or composite resin, can be color-matched to your natural teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from the rest of your smile. This aesthetic advantage is particularly important for patients who want a discreet and natural-looking restoration, which is why inlays are often preferred over metal fillings.
4. Strengthens the Tooth
Unlike fillings, which can sometimes weaken the structure of a tooth, dental inlays actually help strengthen the tooth. Inlays provide additional support to the tooth by bonding directly to it, making it more resistant to fractures or future damage. This can be especially beneficial for patients with weakened or damaged teeth who want to prevent further deterioration.
5. Less Invasive than Crowns
Dental inlays are a more conservative treatment option compared to crowns. While crowns require the removal of a significant portion of the tooth’s structure to fit over the entire tooth, inlays only require the removal of the damaged portion. This allows for more of the healthy tooth to be preserved, which is beneficial for long-term oral health.
How Much Do Inlays Cost?
The cost can vary depending on several factors, including the material used, the location of the tooth, and the complexity of the procedure. On average, inlays can range in cost from $650 to $1,200 per tooth.
Below is a breakdown of the factors that influence how much dental inlays cost:
Material
- Porcelain inlays tend to be more expensive due to their natural appearance and durability. Porcelain inlays can range from $800 to $1,200 per tooth.
- Composite resin inlays are a more affordable option, typically costing between $650 and $900 per tooth.
- Gold inlays are the most durable but also the most expensive, with costs ranging from $900 to $1,200 per tooth.
Location of the Tooth
Molars and premolars, which are located at the back of the mouth, may require more complex procedures and larger inlays, which can increase the overall cost.
Dental Insurance Coverage
In some cases, dental insurance may cover part of the cost of dental inlays, especially if the procedure is deemed medically necessary to restore function and prevent further oral health issues. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to determine what portion of the cost they will cover.
Midtown also partners with Rubicare Health Savings Plan, saving members significant dental discounts of specific dental treatments.
Dentist’s Expertise
The cost of inlays can also vary based on the dentist’s level of expertise and the location of the dental practice. At Midtown Dental, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, affordable restorative dentistry services, including dental inlays. We also offer flexible payment plans to make dental care more accessible to our patients.
Are Inlays Worth It?
The answer to this question depends on your specific oral health needs and priorities. Here are a few reasons why dental inlays are worth the investment:
Longevity
Inlays are incredibly durable and can last for decades with proper care. This means that while the upfront cost may be higher than a traditional filling, the long-term savings can be significant. Patients who invest can avoid the need for more frequent replacements and repairs, which can save both time and money.
Improved Oral Health
Dental inlays help restore the integrity of a damaged tooth, preventing further decay or the need for more invasive treatments like crowns or root canals. By choosing inlays, you can protect your teeth and improve your overall oral health, which is essential for maintaining a healthy smile.
Aesthetic Appeal
For patients who are concerned about the appearance of their smile, dental inlays offer a more natural-looking solution than metal fillings. The ability to color-match porcelain or composite inlays to your natural teeth ensures that your smile remains beautiful and uniform.
Conservative Treatment Option
Inlays are a less invasive treatment option compared to crowns, which require more of the natural tooth structure to be removed. By opting for inlays, you can preserve more of your healthy tooth while still restoring function and appearance. This conservative approach can help maintain your oral health in the long term.
The Dental Inlay Procedure
The process of getting a dental inlay typically involves two visits to Midtown Dental. Here’s what you can expect during each step of the procedure:
Initial Consultation and Tooth Preparation
During your first visit, our dentist will assess the damage to your tooth and determine whether an inlay is the best restorative option. If an inlay is recommended, our dental team will remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and take an impression or digital scan of the tooth.
This impression is then sent to a dental lab, where your custom inlay will be fabricated. In the meantime, a temporary filling may be placed to protect your tooth until the inlay is ready.
Fitting and Bonding the Inlay
Once your inlay has been crafted, you will return to the dental office for your second visit. During this appointment, the dental team will remove the temporary filling and check the fit of the inlay. Once the fit is perfect, the inlay is bonded to the tooth using a strong dental adhesive. Our dentist will then polish the inlay to ensure it blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Post-Treatment Care
After your inlay has been placed, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene to protect both the inlay and the surrounding teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups at Midtown Dental will help ensure the longevity of your inlay and maintain your overall oral health.
Conclusion
Dental inlays are an excellent restorative dentistry option for patients with moderate tooth decay or damage. They offer superior durability, a precise fit, and aesthetic benefits that make them a worthwhile investment for maintaining oral health. While the cost may be higher than traditional fillings, their long-lasting results and ability to strengthen the tooth make them a valuable option for those seeking a durable and natural-looking solution.
At Midtown Dental, we are committed to providing top-notch restorative dentistry services to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. If you’re considering dental inlays or want to learn more about the benefits and costs, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team today.
