Dental Inlays and Onlays Restore Damaged Teeth with the Help of Our 60559 Dentist

Dental inlays and onlays offer a more conservative approach to tooth restoration compared to full crowns. These treatments are particularly effective for repairing rear teeth that have mild to moderate decay or for cracked teeth that do not require the extensive coverage of a crown. Inlays and onlays are crafted from durable materials such as porcelain, composite resin, and sometimes gold, ensuring both functionality and aesthetics. If you're seeking a tooth restoration solution nearby, consulting our 60559 dentist office about inlays and onlays could be the perfect option for preserving your natural tooth structure.

Understanding Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are similar in that they both address damage to the chewing surface of the tooth, but they differ in the extent of coverage. Inlays are used when the damage is confined to the center of the tooth, fitting neatly within the grooves and not extending to the cusps. On the other hand, onlays are utilized when the damage extends to one or more of the tooth's cusps, covering a larger portion of the tooth's surface. Both inlays and onlays are custom-made to match the shape and color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking restoration.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

When you visit our 60559 dentist, you'll discover several compelling benefits of choosing inlays and onlays for tooth restoration:

• Natural Appearance: Inlays and onlays are designed to blend in with your natural teeth. Their tooth-colored material makes them virtually invisible, unlike traditional metal fillings.

• Superior Fit: Unlike metal fillings that can expand or contract with temperature changes, inlays and onlays remain stable, ensuring a snug and secure fit.

• Durability: With proper care, inlays and onlays can last up to 30 years, significantly outlasting other types of fillings.

• Conservation of Tooth Structure: One of the greatest advantages of inlays and onlays is their conservative nature. They require minimal removal of the healthy tooth structure, allowing for maximum preservation of your natural tooth while still effectively treating decayed or damaged areas.

The Procedure: What to Expect

The placement of inlays and onlays typically requires two visits to our office.

First Visit: During your initial appointment, Dr. Gadde will prepare the affected tooth by removing any decayed or damaged areas. After the tooth is prepared, she will take an impression of the tooth, which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the custom inlay or onlay will be fabricated. Before you leave, a temporary inlay or onlay will be placed to protect your tooth while the permanent restoration is being made.

Second Visit: When you return for your second appointment, our 60559 dentist will remove the temporary inlay or onlay and carefully fit the permanent restoration onto your tooth. The dentist will ensure that the inlay or onlay fits perfectly and matches the color of your surrounding teeth. Once both you and your dentist are satisfied with the fit, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to your tooth using a strong dental adhesive. After polishing the restoration, your tooth will look and function just like your natural teeth.

Inlays and onlays offer an excellent solution for those looking to preserve their natural tooth structure while effectively treating decay or damage. If you’re interested in learning more about this procedure, our friendly staff can provide the expert guidance and care you need to restore your smile.