Choosing The Best Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentists offer a variety of treatment methods for different types of tooth damage, which can include dental bridges, dental implants, crowns, dentures, fillings, veneers, onlays, and inlays. Which of these options is best will depend on the type and extent of damage, whether one or more teeth are missing, the strength of your jawbone, your budget, and other considerations. Ask your Washington Heights dentist for a full examination and recommendations for which cosmetic dentistry treatments will give you the most function and a beautiful smile.
Two of the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments are dental onlays and inlays, which are tooth restorations that are used when a filling will not work but the tooth is not in bad enough condition to need a dental crown. This includes situations where a tooth is fractured, cracked, or decayed with only mild to moderate amounts of damage. Onlays and inlays are similar treatments; which is recommended will depend on where the tooth damage is located. An onlay covers only the cusp of the tooth, while an inlay fills in the area between the cusps. Generally speaking, inlays are a preferable treatment because they can fill a larger cavity, and their placement on the tooth makes them more durable. But ultimately, the extent of the damage and the shape of your tooth will help your Washington Heights dentist determine whether a dental inlay or a dental onlay will be the best treatment for your situation.
How Can Dental Inlays Restore My Teeth?
If you schedule an appointment with your cosmetic dentist to address a crack, chip, or other damage to one of your teeth, a dental inlay may be recommended to restore your smile and protect the rest of your tooth from decay and other damage. Dental inlays are sometimes called “partial crowns” because they are more extensive than a filling and act similarly to a crown. They are a modern alternative to conventional metal fillings, made with porcelain that is similar in color to your natural teeth, providing a natural appearance that gives you an amazing, attractive smile.
Extend The Life Of Your Teeth With Dental Inlays
If you’re looking to prolong the life of a damaged tooth but don’t want dental implants, a bridge, or a crown, a dental inlay might be the perfect solution. An inlay is made with durable materials and can last the rest of your lifetime as it protects your teeth from damage while restoring the full function of your teeth. In contrast, crowns and fillings will eventually need to be replaced or repaired, sometimes multiple times throughout your lifetime.
Dental Inlays Provide a Durable Solution For Damaged Teeth
Your Washington Heights dental office may recommend dental inlays to correct specific types of tooth damage, which can include cavities and small chips or cracks. The inlay will be colored to match the rest of your teeth. Once the damaged area has been smoothed, cleaned, and prepared, the dental inlay is carefully cemented directly to the compromised tooth, and then shaped to match the rest of your natural teeth.
A dental inlay provides a tight seal over the damaged area that protects it from further decay, inflammation, infection, or other types of damage. It’s resistant to scratches and damage, which means you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful and natural-looking smile that you’ll love.
How Is a Dental Bridge Repaired?
How a dental bridge is repaired will depend on what is wrong. If the tooth that holds the bridge in place, called an abutment tooth, is damaged, your dentist will need to remove the bridge so that the abutment tooth can be treated. This often requires breaking the original bridge or the cement that holds it in place. Once the supporting teeth have gotten the treatment they need, a replacement bridge can be made. Occasionally, damage to the abutment teeth means they will no longer be strong enough to support a new dental bridge. In these cases, your Washington Heights dentist may recommend alternative treatment, such as dental implants. These are permanent artificial teeth that look, feel, and function just like natural teeth, and are surgically secured into your jawbone.
If the dental bridge itself has become chipped or damaged, your dentist may be able to repair the coating without removing or replacing the dental bridge.
Should I Get a Porcelain Or Metal Inlay?
Ask your Washington Heights dentist whether they recommend porcelain or metal dental inlays. Although metal inlays have been used traditionally, porcelain is becoming more popular because it is stronger than metal, looks more natural, and is more resistant to scratching. Porcelain inlays are an excellent choice for patients who have weak teeth or don’t like the look of metal fillings. With a carefully applied porcelain dental inlay, your teeth will be protected against infection, disease, and further damage. Many patients also appreciate that porcelain inlays don’t expand over time the way traditional metal fillings do. Expanded fillings can be extremely painful and may even require replacement in the future. With a porcelain dental inlay, your tooth will function well and look natural for many, many years.
Enhance Your Smile With Dental Care From Esthetix Dental Spa
Get the confidence and healthy smile you deserve when you work with the dentists at Washington Heights dentist. We are proud to offer a wide variety of cosmetic treatment options, including Invisalign, dental implants, porcelain inlays, veneers, and more, along with basic cleaning and general dentistry to promote the best oral health. We are New York’s dental implant and cosmetic dentistry specialist, with extensive experience helping thousands of patients find the smile of their dreams. Call Esthetix Dental Spa today to schedule your appointment!
Esthetix Dentist, NYC’s Dental Implant & Cosmetic Specialist
285 Fort Washington Ave,
New York, NY 10032
Phone: (212) 795-9675
Website: http://esthetixdentalspa.com/