Achieve a Healthy Smile with Inlays & Onlays at Art of Smile Care

Inlays and onlays are excellent restorative dental treatments designed to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. At Art of Smile Care, we offer high-quality inlays and onlays that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring both health and aesthetics. Discover how these treatments can help restore your smile.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are types of dental restorations used to repair the biting surface of a tooth. They are often made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold and are more durable than traditional fillings.

• Inlays: These are used to fill cavities within the cusps (the raised points) of the tooth.
• Onlays: These cover one or more cusps or the entire biting surface of the tooth, extending over the edges.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays offer several benefits compared to traditional fillings:

• Durability: Made from strong materials, inlays and onlays can last many years with proper care.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Porcelain and composite inlays and onlays can be color-matched to your natural teeth, providing a seamless appearance.
• Strength: These restorations help to strengthen the damaged tooth, providing better protection against future decay and fractures.
• Preservation of Tooth Structure: Inlays and onlays require less removal of the natural tooth structure compared to crowns, preserving more of your healthy tooth.

The Inlay and Onlay Procedure

1. Diagnosis and Treatment Planning: During your initial visit, our dentist will examine your tooth and determine if an inlay or onlay is the best option. X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of the damage.
2. Tooth Preparation: The damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is removed. An impression of the tooth is then taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom inlay or onlay will be fabricated.
3. Temporary Restoration: A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth while your inlay or onlay is being made.
4. Placement of Inlay or Onlay: Once your custom restoration is ready, you will return to our office. The temporary filling is removed, and the inlay or onlay is bonded to your tooth using a strong adhesive. It is then polished to match the sheen of your natural teeth.

Caring for Your Inlays and Onlays

Proper care is essential to ensure the longevity of your inlays and onlays:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day and floss daily to keep your teeth and restorations clean.
• Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular check-ups and cleanings at Art of Smile Care to monitor your restorations and overall dental health.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Be cautious with hard foods or objects that could damage your inlays or onlays.