An inlay is a type of filling used to repair a decayed tooth. Unlike composite fillings that involve filling the decayed tooth with a soft material that hardens into place, an inlay is precisely crafted outside of the mouth to fit exactly in place. To create the perfect inlay, a dental impression is taken of the damaged tooth or teeth.
Inlay vs. Composite Filling
Composite fillings are more common, but there are certain situations in which they’re not the right choice. For example, if the decay is extensive enough, a composite filling would compromise the structural integrity of the tooth.
In addition, the liquid material that is used for composite fillings can shrink when hardening which can lead to gaps between the tooth and filling. This can allow for further decay.
If you’d like to learn more about porcelain inlays, please make an appointment to see us by filling out the contact form on our site or giving us a call at 407-907-6512.