The Conservative Solution for Strong, Beautiful Restorations
What happens when a tooth has more damage than a simple filling can repair, but not enough to require a full dental crown? At Veda Family Dentistry, we offer an advanced solution that fits perfectly in between: tooth-colored inlays and onlays. These custom-fabricated restorations are designed to rebuild a tooth's strength and integrity while blending invisibly with your natural smile, all while preserving the maximum amount of healthy tooth structure.
Inlays vs. Onlays: What's the Difference?
Both inlays and onlays are custom-made in a dental laboratory from a solid piece of durable, tooth-colored material, such as porcelain or composite resin. The primary difference is the amount of the tooth they cover.
Dental Inlays
An inlay is a smaller restoration that fits within the cusps (the bumps) on the chewing surface of a tooth. Think of it as a custom-milled puzzle piece that perfectly fills a cavity, offering more strength and longevity than a traditional direct filling.
Dental Onlays
An onlay is a more substantial restoration that is used when the damage extends to one or more of the tooth's cusps. An onlay not only fills the cavity but also covers the damaged cusp(s), protecting the remaining tooth structure. Because it covers a larger area, an onlay is often referred to as a "partial crown."
When is an Inlay or Onlay the Ideal Choice?
Our dentists may recommend an inlay or onlay as a superior restorative option in several situations:
For Large Cavities: When decay or damage is too extensive for a simple filling to be strong enough in the long term.
To Replace Old Metal Fillings: They are an excellent way to replace large, failing amalgam fillings that may have weakened the tooth over time.
For Fractured or Cracked Teeth: When a cusp of a tooth has fractured, an onlay can rebuild the tooth's shape and protect it from further damage.
As a Conservative Alternative to a Crown: When the tooth is damaged but still has enough healthy structure that covering the entire tooth with a crown would be unnecessary.
The Advantages of Modern Inlays and Onlays
Compared to traditional fillings, lab-fabricated inlays and onlays offer significant benefits for the health and appearance of your smile.
Superior Strength and Durability: Because they are milled from a single block of high-strength ceramic, they are much more durable and resistant to chewing forces than direct fillings.
Flawless Aesthetics: We precisely match the shade of the porcelain to your natural tooth, creating a seamless restoration that is virtually invisible.
Preservation of Tooth Structure: Inlays and onlays enable us to preserve more of your healthy tooth than would be necessary for a full dental crown, aligning with our conservative dental philosophy.
Excellent Longevity: With proper care, inlays and onlays can last for many years, often much longer than a large traditional filling.
Precision and Artistry in Every Restoration
A Conservative, Health-First Approach: We are committed to preserving your natural tooth structure. Dr. Priya and Dr. Moosavi will always recommend the most conservative treatment that will provide a strong and lasting result.
Meticulous Design and Fit: Using precise digital impressions, we ensure that your custom inlay or onlay is fabricated for a perfect fit, sealing the tooth from bacteria and ensuring a comfortable bite.
Esthetic Expertise: With his advanced training in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, Dr. Ehsan Moosavi has the artistic skill to ensure your restoration is not only functional but also beautifully and naturally integrated into your smile.
High-Quality, Biocompatible Materials: We use only the highest-grade, tooth-colored porcelain and composite materials for a result that is both beautiful and healthy.
Learn More About This Advanced Restorative Option.
If you have a large filling that needs replacement or a damaged tooth that may need more than a simple filling, an inlay or onlay could be the perfect solution. Contact Veda Family Dentistry to schedule your consultation.
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