Have you heard of inlays or onlays? It is a relatively common form of restorative dentistry and yet not a lot of patients are familiar with the terms. At Eggleston Dental Care in Turlock, CA we will provide our patients with this form of restorative dentistry as a means of esthetically treating tooth decay. Similar to fillings, they are also like bonding. The inlays fit inside the cusps of the tooth while the onlays fit over the cusps and a bit inside of them. As you might guess, this is a very conservative way to deal with decay, but there are some special steps for inlays and onlays aftercare.
Steps of Inlays and Onlays Aftercare
As your trusted dentist in Turlock, we will try to use inlays and onlays whenever possible. However, your inlays and onlays specialist will also review the two stages of inlays and onlays aftercare required. The first stage is that immediately after your treatment. This will be as your teeth are still a bit numb and/or sore from the irritation caused by treatment.
During that period, you must avoid hot and cold beverages, chewing sticky foods and pay close attention to your bite. Get in touch with the office the moment you realize your bite feels “off” as this can harm the inlays and onlays or lead to dental pain and even ongoing issues with the bite or jaw.
The other period of inlays and onlays aftercare is once your numbness or soreness has faded and you are growing used to them. You will want to avoid any behaviors that would harm natural teeth such as using the teeth to open things, chewing overly hard or sticky foods, skipping proper oral hygiene. You must have your regular exams and cleanings, and do regular flossing and brushing if you wish to enjoy many years of good service from inlays and onlays.
Contact Our Turlock Dentist for More Information
Do you have more questions about proper aftercare for inlays or onlays? If so, feel free to give us a call at our Turlock, CA office at 209-634-9582. You can also use our online contact form and one of our staff will get back to you promptly.
