Understanding Indirect Filling Options from Your Cosmetic Dentist
by Lillian Dixon
Cosmetic dentists handle a wide range of services including a procedure called indirect fillings. This may be a process that you are unfamiliar with, but if you have issues with decaying or damaged teeth, you may want to become familiar with what this option entails. Here are a few key points about indirect fillings and what you should know.
What Options are Available?
The first thing you should know about indirect fillings is that you have two options. These options are known as inlays and onlays. The key difference between each one is where the filling is placed. If your dentist bonds the filling to the outer centre of your tooth, then it is known as an indirect inlay filling procedure. If your dentist bonds the filling to several areas of your tooth, then it is known as an onlay procedure. The type of procedure used will greatly depend on the type of tooth decay or damage you have and where that damage is located.
What are the Fillings Made of?
A concern for many cosmetic dental patients facing the option of an indirect filling is what materials are used in the filling itself. The material used may be from a composite source, meaning it is made of several different materials. It can also be made of gold or porcelain. If you have a specific allergy to something that may be found in composite filling materials you will need to notify the cosmetic dentist handling the procedure. This may lead to ordering a special filling material that fits your health needs, so you will need to be prepared for that occurrence.
What Benefits are Available with Indirect Fillings?
If your cosmetic dentist suggests indirect fillings to you it is likely due to them being an alternative to dental crowns. They may also suggest them for financial reasons. According to the Doc Shop, indirect filling procedures can cost an average price of $900. This may be less than crowns or other dental procedures depending on your dental needs and tooth health.
Will Indirect Fillings Help a Full Smile?
The process of indirect fillings is used primarily for rear teeth while veneers or another option are used for front teeth. This means that indirect fillings may be an alternative to tooth extraction, but may not be an ideal alternative if a full smile procedure is desired. Your cosmetic dentist will be able to determine if indirect fillings are an ideal option for your needs and if they can be combined with other cosmetic procedures to help repair your smile.
These are just a few of the key points you should know about cosmetic dental options dealing with indirect fillings. If you think this may be an option for you, consult your dentist for a consultation and evaluation.
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About Me
As a mum, I know how essential sport can be to children's development. Through team sports like soccer, kids learn persistence, sportsmanship and the value of supporting their team members. However, all that learning carries some risk as well, and a stray elbow or a ball to the face can result in oral injuries. I have been the mum rushing to the emergency room with a precious permanent tooth sitting in a cup of milk. Admittedly, at the time, I wasn't even sure if the cup of milk was the right solution. As a parent, you will face those situations, and I'm here to make sure you know what to do when they pop up. With this blog, let's explore children's dentistry and sports injuries together... I want you to have the info you need to stay cool, calm and collected, regardless of how many teeth are on the pitch.