One of the benefits of dental inlays and onlays is their excellent longevity. With the right home care and routine dental check-ups, inlays and onlays tend to last around 20 years or more. This is much longer than composite resin fillings, which tend to last 7 to 15 years. This is one of the primary reasons that our dentists recommend inlays and onlays.
What Affects How Long Your Inlay or Onlay Lasts?
Dental inlays and onlays are made of ceramic porcelain, which is one reason for their greater longevity. Their lifespan also depends on the care that you give them, so here are some helpful tips for making the most of your dental inlays and onlays in Bellevue, TN.
- Consistent Home Care — Routine daily brushing and flossing will help to protect the health of your restoration. Just because the inlay or onlay itself is immune to tooth decay doesn't mean that your natural tooth structure underneath is.
- Mouthguards — If you participate in sports or if you clench and grind your teeth at night, wearing a protective mouth guard will help preserve the longevity of your dental restorations.
- Mindful Chewing — Never use your teeth as tools or to open or carry things. Teeth are only for chewing food.
Contact your dentist in Bellevue, TN, at (615) 662-2400 if you have questions about dental inlays or onlays.