Porcelain inlays are similar to fillings; they sit inside the tooth – usually the back teeth where chewing takes place. The porcelain material used creates a natural look, as your dentist can match it to the color of your original teeth.
More durable than a filling, porcelain inlays are used to fill in the tooth or teeth when they are too decayed to take a filling.
You will normally be placed under a local anesthetic to numb the area of the mouth. Any decay is then removed from the tooth or teeth, which are then shaped before a mould is taken. The mould is sent over to a dental laboratory where they will create your new porcelain inlays to fit exactly into your teeth and match the original color. You will be given temporary fillings while your porcelain inlays are being created. On your second visit, your dentist will ‘cement’ the porcelain inlays into the teeth, using a special bonding agent. If needed, the tooth is shaped and then polished.
Porcelain inlays should for a good many years, and are a lot more durable than fillings. There are no particular special requirements following the fitting of your porcelain inlays, but you may find your teeth are slightly more sensitive for the first few days. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene, and your dentist will talk you through this.
There are few risks associated with porcelain inlays; these include loosening and cracking of the inlay, in which case you will need to have it (or them) replaced.
