Inlays and onlays are fantastic dental restorations that offer a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for repairing damaged teeth. These custom-made tooth fillings are superior to traditional fillings in cases where a significant portion of the tooth structure is compromised. But just like your natural teeth, inlays and onlays require proper care to ensure their longevity and optimal oral health.

This blog dives into essential maintenance tips to keep your dental inlays and onlays in top shape, allowing you to enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.

Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene is Key

The foundation for caring for your inlays and onlays lies in practicing excellent oral hygiene. Here’s what this entails:

Brushing: Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste is crucial. Pay particular attention to the areas surrounding your restorations. Use gentle circular motions to remove plaque and food debris that can accumulate around the inlay or onlay and the natural tooth structure.
Flossing: Daily flossing is essential for cleaning between your teeth and along the gumline—areas that a toothbrush might miss. This helps prevent plaque buildup and gum disease, which can compromise the integrity of your restorations and surrounding teeth.
Mouthwash: Consider incorporating an antimicrobial mouthwash into your routine. This can help control bacterial growth, freshen breath, and potentially offer additional protective benefits for your restorations.

Be Mindful of What Goes in Your Mouth

Certain habits and dietary choices can impact the longevity and appearance of your inlays and onlays. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Avoid Harmful Habits: Chewing on hard objects like ice, using your teeth as tools (bottle openers! ), or nail-biting can cause fractures or chipping of your restorations.
Limit Hard Foods: While inlays and onlays are quite durable, excessively hard foods like nutshells or hard candy can put unnecessary stress on them. Opt for softer alternatives or enjoy them in moderation.
Beware of Staining Beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, and certain curries can stain your inlays and onlays over time. While occasional indulgence is fine, consider rinsing your mouth with water after consuming these beverages to minimize staining.
Smoking Cessation: Smoking not only harms your overall health but can also stain your restorations and contribute to gum disease. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your oral and overall health.

Regular Dental Checkups are Essential

Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist, typically every six months. During these visits, your dentist will:

Examine your inlays and onlays. They will check for any signs of wear, chipping, or cracking that might necessitate repair or replacement.
Assess your oral health. They will evaluate your gums for signs of inflammation or disease, which can affect the stability of your restorations.
Clean your teeth professionally. Professional cleanings remove built-up plaque and tartar that your regular brushing and flossing might miss, ensuring optimal oral hygiene.

If you experience any discomfort, sensitivity, or chipping around your inlays or onlays, contact your dentist immediately. Early intervention can prevent more serious issues and ensure the long-term success of your restorations.

Additional Tips for Optimal Care

Nightguards: If you grind your teeth (bruxism), your dentist might recommend a nightguard to protect your inlays and onlays from excessive wear and tear.
Fluoride Treatment: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and can help protect the natural tooth structure surrounding your restorations. Discuss fluoride treatment options with your dentist.

By following these simple yet effective maintenance tips, you can ensure that your dental inlays and onlays continue to function beautifully and support a healthy, confident smile for many years to come. Remember, prevention is crucial—prioritize excellent oral hygiene, avoid habits that could harm your restorations, and schedule regular dental visits for the best outcomes. For further guidance on caring for your dental inlays and onlays or to arrange a check-up, reach out to our Elmhurst dental office today. Our team is committed to assisting you in achieving optimal oral health.