Inlays and Onlays Treatment
At Dental Associates of New England, we use inlays and onlays to repair tooth damage caused by decay, with results that can last up to thirty years. If you’re suffering from rear teeth that are too decayed for treatment with a filling, an inlay or onlay is an ideal way to restore the tooth will incredibly durable results. When you meet with a skilled Boston cosmetic dentist at our practice, you’ll receive expert care no matter what treatment you receive from our wide range of available cosmetic and restorative dental procedures.
About Inlay Treatments
A tooth affected by mild to moderate amounts of decay can be restored with an inlay, a restoration that covers the surface of the tooth and prevents further damage. Specifically designed to heal decay that inhabits the indented surface of the tooth between the cusps (the top projections of a tooth), our inlays are crafted from tooth-colored porcelain. Porcelain inlays feature a natural appearance, and are more durable than metal inlays or silver fillings with longer-lasting results.
About Onlay Treatments
When a rear tooth is more severely decayed, with damage extending on to one or more of the cusps of the tooth, an onlay is a great way to clean and treat the problem. An onlay covers more of the surface area of the tooth, and is a similar but more extensive treatment for tooth decay than an inlay.
Inlay and Onlay Benefits
Inlays and onlays are an excellent alternative to fillings and dental crowns. The advantages of an inlay or onlay treatment include:
- Less drilling. Other common dental treatments require additional tooth surface removal, but with inlays and onlays more of the natural tooth surface can be retained.
- Versatility. Inlays and onlays can be used to effectively repair cavities and tooth decay, particularly on the rear teeth where more chewing power is required.
- Durability. Made with strong porcelain materials, an inlay or onlay can last for two to three decades with proper care.
Inlays and Onlays Procedure
Inlay and onlays have a similar treatment process, and usually take two visits to complete. On the first visit, your dentist will carefully remove any decay from the tooth, and then take an impression of the tooth so that your restoration can be created. When you return for the final step of the procedure, your new inlay or onlay will be bonded in place, ensuring your porcelain restoration will look and feel just like a natural tooth.
Additional Dental Treatments
At Dental Associates of New England, we’re skilled in treating all stages of tooth decay. If extensive tooth decay has damaged a tooth, a porcelain dental crown can protect the tooth’s structure. We have successfully repaired the smiles of our Boston dental crowns patients.
Contact Us For More Information
When you visit a cosmetic dentist at Dental Associates of New England, you’ll experience world-class care, with the latest technology and expertise in providing aesthetically pleasing results. To schedule a complimentary consultation and learn more about inlays and onlays, please contact our Boston cosmetic dentistry practice.