What Materials Are Used for a Dental Inlay
There are a variety of material options to consider for your dental inlay. The recommended dental inlay type is largely dependent upon the location of the tooth that is damaged, the desired durability by the patient, and the aesthetic desire of the patient, among other possible considerations that are discussed below.
What are the most popular materials that are used for a dental inlay?
The materials that are most often used for a dental inlay are ceramic, composite resin, metal alloy, and gold alloy. There are pros and cons to each option that are discussed below to help you decide which material may be best for your restoration.
Ceramic
A ceramic dental inlay is a great way to maintain or restore the natural appearance of the tooth. Ceramic is a strong material that is relatively resistant to damage, and it is highly stain resistant, so protecting the shade of your smile is achievable with good oral hygiene. One potential drawback to a ceramic dental inlay is that it is not as durable and damage-resistant as one made of metal or gold alloy.
Composite resin
Composite resin is similar to ceramic in several ways; they are both aesthetically pleasing options that do not offer the same level of durability as a metal alloy. However, a composite resin inlay is more likely to stain or damage than ceramic. When compared to a dental filling, however, a composite resin inlay is stronger and more durable.
Metal alloy
A metal alloy inlay does not offer the same level of aesthetic benefit, and the color is usually noticeably different than composite resin or ceramic. However, a metal alloy dental inlay is able to withstand the daily pressures that premolars and molars are subject to much better than a tooth-colored inlay. Subsequently, they are most appropriate for teeth further back in the mouth that are responsible for chewing.
Gold alloy
A gold alloy dental inlay is the strongest option, but it is also the most costly in many cases as well. In addition, while some may prefer the gold look, many prefer a dental inlay that more closely resembles the shade of natural teeth. Nevertheless, A gold alloy dental inlay remains an intriguing alternative to the more traditional choices for a dental inlay.
How to choose the right dental inlay material
The best choice for you is largely dependent on your personal preference. A tooth-colored inlay such as ceramic or composite resin is not likely to last as long, but they offer optimal aesthetic benefits. On the other hand, a metal alloy or gold alloy dental inlay is superior in strength and can last for longer on average.
Improve your smile and oral health with a dental inlay
Here at our dental practice, we can help you decide which dental inlay material is right for you according to your treatment goals. If you have a damaged tooth that you would like to fix with an inlay or similar restoration, call us today to schedule a visit.
Request an appointment here: https://roydental.net or call Roy Dental: Paramita Roy DDS at (650) 200-1178 for an appointment in our Redwood City office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Restorations in Redwood City, CA.
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