Inlays and Onlays
Conservative alternatives to fillings and crowns
Discuss with our cosmetic dentist if inlays or onlays are the right choice for you.
Book a Free Consultation. Call (408) 371-1070
Inlays and Onlays in Los Gatos, CA
If your tooth has become damaged, there are several options that can help repair and restore your smile. Inlays and onlays are two of the lesser-known dental restorations that are alternatives to fillings and crowns. Dentists use inlays to fill large cavities, while onlays restore a severely worn out cusp or biting surface of a tooth. Both these restorations are made from dental-grade ceramic and can be customized to mimic the appearance of the natural teeth.
Why Should You Choose Inlays And Onlays?
- Inlays are one of the most effective ways of saving a severely decayed tooth. When a large cavity is filled with composite filling material, chances run high for the tooth to crack under severe forces. But, when inlays are placed in the cavity, they restore the strength of the tooth by up to 90%.
- Onlays are simple restorations that can be fabricated easily and bonded to a worn-out biting surface.
- Both these restorations look similar to the natural enamel in terms of color, texture, and transparency.
- They are highly durable and long-lasting.
- Since they are made from ceramic, they are resistant to staining.
Inlay and Onlay Benefits
Inlays and onlays look and function just like natural teeth. Your dentist will install a color that looks just like your other teeth to create a seamless match. You can also feel confident knowing that once your onlay or inlay is placed, it won’t change color.
Because onlays and inlays are meant to function just like your natural teeth, your dental hygiene can stay the same after they’re installed. You won’t have to make any changes to your brushing or flossing routine or follow any special steps.
You’ll be able to take advantage of several other benefits:
- Provides natural looking appearance
- Custom-made for the best fit
- Reduced temperature sensitivity as compared to traditional, metal fillings
- Helps strengthen natural tooth structure
- Less invasive than a dental crown
Are Inlays and Onlays Right for You?
If the majority of your tooth’s biting surface, the top portion, has extensive decay or damage, onlays and inlays are most likely the best treatment option for you. That’s because other solutions, such as traditional fillings, have the potential to reduce the strength of your natural teeth.
Unlike other types of cosmetic dental procedures, inlays and onlays bond right onto your tooth with high-strength resins. Instead of weakening your natural tooth, this method will instead strengthen it. When designed and installed correctly, onlays and inlays can last anywhere from 10-30 years, making them cost-effective.
Based on the amount of decay and damage, your dentist will be able to help you determine if an inlay or onlay is right for you during your consultation.
What Is The Procedure Involved?
When you visit our dental practice for the initial consultation, the dentist will thoroughly diagnose your teeth and understand the severity of the condition. This will also help to determine your candidacy for the restorations. The tooth will be prepared for the scan by cleaning and removing the decay from it. A hand-held scanning device is used to scan the teeth and make a digital mold. It will be shared with a dental laboratory, where the restoration will be fabricated in a few days.
During the following appointment, the dentist will place the restoration on the tooth and check for fit before permanently bonding it. If the contour checks out, dental adhesives will be used to bond it to the tooth. A curing light is used to harden it. The dentist checks the bite and polishes the restoration so that it matches the exact appearance of the adjoining teeth.
Onlay and Inlay Treatment in Los Gatos
At Dr. Mahsa Esfandiari Dental Group, we can help you figure out if you would benefit from either our onlay or inlay treatment options here in Los Gatos. We’ll help you get started by providing a diagnosis and developing a treatment plan that takes your specific needs into consideration.
No matter which treatment you need, you can always expect to be treated like family in our comfortable and welcoming environment. We strive to listen carefully to your needs in order to provide the best care possible. With in-house discount plans for patients without dental insurance, as well as financing with zero down payment, we’ll help make your inlay or onlay treatment as affordable as possible.
Ready to restore your smile and experience exceptional full-service dentistry? Please schedule an appointment online or call us at (408) 371-1070 to have a consultation with Dr. Esfandiari, and we will be happy to help.
Please schedule an appointment online or call us at (408) 371-1070 to have a consultation with Dr. Esfandiari, and we will be happy to help.
