Dental Inlays and Onlays: A Conservative Restorative Option
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations used to repair molars that have suffered damage or decay that is too extensive to repair with a filling, but not extensive enough to warrant a dental crown. They are fully customized in terms of shape and color to achieve a precise fit within your tooth, and provide a natural appearance. Drs. Donald H. Ross, Dr. David Kim and Neal Shah will assess your smile to determine which restorative treatment is best for your needs. Contact Feather Touch Dental Care to learn more about dental inlays and onlays placed at our Atlanta, GA, office.
Inlays and Onlays vs. Dental Crowns
Inlays and onlays are sometimes called “partial crowns” or “indirect fillings.” Larger than fillings, an inlay fits within the cusps on the chewing surface of a molar, while an onlay replaces one or more cusps as well. Unlike a crown, these restorations do not cover your entire tooth. Because inlays and onlays are smaller than crowns, your dentist will need to perform much less prep work, and he can preserve more of your natural tooth structure.
At Feather Touch Dental Care, we only provide tooth-colored inlays and onlays. Modern porcelain and ceramic come in a vast range colors. They are also slightly translucent, so they look incredibly similar to dental enamel. These materials are very durable, and can withstand the pressure of chewing.
We believe in administering the most conservative treatment possible to meet your needs. If we detect signs of tooth decay, we will perform a careful analysis to determine the right solution for you.
When Do We Place Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are most commonly used to restore teeth following treatment for decay. They can also repair cracked molars and strengthen weakened teeth. During an in-depth consultation, your dentist will determine if an inlay, onlay, or other restorative solution is right for you.
Designing and Attaching Your Restoration
To place an inlay or onlay, your dentist will first numb your tooth. He will remove damaged tissue and make room for the restoration so that it can fit precisely within your tooth. Next, your dentist will take impressions and photos of your teeth. Our off-site lab can use this information to create restorations that are a virtually flawless match for your smile. While you are waiting for your inlay or onlay, we will supply a temporary restoration.
When your inlay or onlay is finished, your dentist will make sure it fits correctly. Your molars greatly impact the force and balance of your bite. Therefore, your dentist will carefully check how your inlay or onlay affects your new bite alignment to make sure it does not place undue pressure on your surrounding teeth or temporomandibular joints (TMJs). When you confirm that your bite is comfortable, and your dentist verifies that your bite is properly balanced, he will permanently attach the restoration.
Contact Us Today
We believe in administering the most conservative treatment possible to meet your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. If we detect signs of tooth decay, we will perform a careful analysis to determine the right solution for you.
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