When we think about restoring a tooth that has had a large cavity or a broken tooth, we have to protect the tooth to prevent it from breaking again in the future. The two most common ways to do this are with a crown or an inlay. In this post we will try to explain the differences between inlays and metal-ceramic crowns and why in certain cases inlays may be a better option. Imagine that your tooth has suffered some damage, but still retains a significant amount of healthy structure. This is where the key difference between an inlay and a metal-ceramic crown comes into play. Inlays and crowns are types of dental restorations designed to protect and restore the functionality and appearance of a damaged tooth. Let’s start with the embeds:

• Inlays are like puzzle pieces custom-made to perfectly fit the shape and size of the damaged area of the tooth. They are used when a portion of the tooth is compromised, but the majority of the tooth structure is healthy and solid. They are like custom patches to cover the affected area, preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. These inlays, usually made of ceramic or zirconium, have the advantage of being highly aesthetic. They blend in with the natural color and texture of your teeth, making them practically invisible and perfectly integrated into your smile. Additionally, they require less wear on the healthy tooth compared to crowns.
• On the other hand, metal-ceramic crowns, unlike inlays, cover and surround the entire tooth. They are stronger and more resistant due to their structure that covers the entire surface of the tooth. They are often used when the tooth has suffered a significant amount of damage or when there is less healthy tooth structure available to support an inlay. The visible part of a metal-ceramic crown is made of ceramic to match the color and appearance of natural teeth. However, its metal base may be less aesthetic and visible in certain lighting conditions or if the gum recedes.

So why might we consider inlays as a better option in certain cases? First, inlays preserve more of the natural structure of the tooth. They require less wear and tear on healthy dental tissue, which is essential for maintaining the overall strength and health of the tooth. This means that, in simple terms, they preserve more of your original tooth, which is great for long-term health.

Secondly, inlays are more aesthetic compared to metal-ceramic crowns. Being made from materials that resemble natural teeth, they are virtually indistinguishable, allowing you to maintain a natural, beautiful smile without the dental restoration being noticeable.

However, it is important to note that the choice between an inlay and a metal-ceramic crown depends on several factors, such as the amount of damage to the tooth, the location of the tooth in the mouth, and individual preferences. In cases where the structural integrity of the tooth is more compromised, a crown may be more appropriate. While inlays are an excellent option when it comes to preserving as much of your original tooth as possible and maintaining a natural and aesthetic appearance to your smile. It is always recommended that Dr. Celeste can make a correct evaluation to determine which of these options is the best for your specific situation and thus recover the health and beauty of your smile.