What Are Indirect Fillings?
Indirect fillings are similar to composite or tooth-colored
fillings except that they are made in a dental laboratory
and require two visits before being placed. Indirect
fillings are considered when not enough tooth structure
remains to support a filling but the tooth is not so
severely damaged that it needs a crown.
During the first visit, decay or an old filling is
removed. An impression is taken to record the shape
of the tooth being repaired and the teeth around it.
The impression is sent to a dental laboratory that will
make the indirect filling. A temporary filling (described
below) is placed to protect the tooth while your restoration
is being made. During the second visit, the temporary
filling is removed, and the dentist will check the fit
of the indirect restoration. Provided the fit is acceptable,
it will be permanently cemented into place.
There are two types of indirect fillings – inlays and
onlays.
- Inlays
are similar to fillings but the entire work lies within
the cusps (bumps) on the chewing surface of the tooth
-
Onlays are more extensive than inlays, covering
one or more cusps. Onlays are sometimes called partial
crowns
Inlays and onlays are more durable and last much longer
than traditional fillings – up to 30 years. They can
be made of tooth-colored composite resin, porcelain
or gold. Inlays and onlays weaken the tooth structure,
but do so to a much lower extent than traditional fillings.
What's a Temporary
Filling and Why Would I Need One?
Temporary fillings are used under the following circumstances:
- For fillings that require more than
one appointment – for example, before placement of
inlays and onlays
- Following a root canal
- To allow a tooth's nerve to "settle
down" if the pulp became irritated
- If emergency dental treatment is
needed (such as to address a toothache)
Temporary fillings are not meant to last. They usually
fall out, fracture, or wear out within 1 month. Be sure
to contact your dentist to have your temporary filling
replaced with a permanent one. If this is not done,
the tooth could become infected with other complications.
Are Amalgam-Type Fillings
Safe?
Over the past several years, concerns have been raised
about silver-colored fillings, otherwise called amalgams.
Because amalgams contain mercury, some people think
that amalgams are responsible for causing a number of
diseases, including autism, Alzheimer's disease, and
multiple sclerosis.
The American Dental Association (ADA), the FDA, and
numerous public health agencies say amalgams are safe,
and that any link between mercury-based fillings and
disease is unfounded. The causes of autism, Alzheimer's
disease, and multiple sclerosis remain unknown. Additionally,
there is no solid, scientific evidence to back up the
claim that if a person has amalgam fillings removed,
he or she will be cured of these or any other diseases.
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