Today more patients ask their dentist about white fillings because they want their teeth to look more natural when they laugh, talk and smile. Other type of white fillings include composite inlays and porcelain Inlays and onlays. Inlays and onlays are used to restore teeth that are badly damaged by decay or wear. Inlays and onlays are sometimes referred to as partial crowns. These partial crowns are utilized when there is still a healthy enamel portion of the tooth. An inlay or onlay is like a puzzle piece that will be fitted into the remaining, healthy portion of the tooth to help increase its strength. This piece is usually crafted out of porcelain or gold, but can also be made of a composite material.
If you have tooth damage that needs to be repaired, the Cosmetic Dental team at Saratoga Dental can restore strength and function to your tooth with advanced inlays and onlays. Crafted from composite resin or porcelain, our inlay and onlay restorations are a great way to seal areas of decay and fix wear and tear when a simple tooth filling just will not get the job done.
About Inlays and Onlays
Unlike fillings or bondings, inlays and onlays must be designed and crafted, and then bonded to enamel. Inlays refer to restorations that are bonded to the inner cusps of teeth. Onlays are set across a tooth’s biting surface and extend over the cusps. An inlay is used when the damage is confined to the biting surface, whereas an onlay is used for more substantial areas of injury that affect the outer tooth surfaces. Both types may be recommended to replace old, worn, or metal fillings that have become useless over the years.
Inlays and onlays are frequently used when damaged enamel requires a stronger solution than a filling, but is not severe enough to warrant a dental crown. They are less expensive than dental crowns and preserve more of your natural tooth.