Inlays & Onlays in Alhambra, CA
Inlays and onlays are indirect dental restorations that reinforce an existing tooth that is too damaged to support a filling, but not damaged enough to require a crown.
Inlays and onlays are known as indirect fillings because unlike a standard dental filling, both are made in a laboratory and cemented or bonded to the surface of the tooth during a second visit. Unlike standard fillings, inlays and onlays do not weaken the tooth structure, but actually strengthen it.
After the procedure the tooth can bear up to 50 – 75% more chewing force. Because both are fabricated in a dental laboratory, it usually takes two or more appointments to restore a tooth with a porcelain inlay or onlay.
What does getting Inlays & Onlays involve?
As already mentioned, the inlays and onlays process usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate impressions that will be used to create your custom inlay and a temporary restoration.
While the tooth is numb, Dr. Andrew Mutch will remove any decay and/or old filling materials.
The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared, shaping the surface to properly fit an inlay/onlay restoration. A temporary filling will be applied to protect the tooth while your inlay is made by a dental laboratory.
At your second appointment your new inlay will be carefully and precisely cemented into place. A few adjustments may be necessary to ensure a proper fit and that your bite is comfortable.
You will receive care instruction at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, a proper diet, and regular dental visits will greatly help in the life of your new inlay.
Benefits of getting Inlays/Onlays
Easy Cleaning: Dental inlays/onlays are tailored to fit perfectly with minimal preparation. This makes cleaning a dental onlay easier than cleaning a regualar dental crown.
Stability: Dental onlays are strong and stable. Their superior fit and resilient material make onlays a great choice, sometimes even strengthening a damaged tooth. This strength occurs because a dental onlay does not require our dentists to totally reshape the tooth that is being restored.
Color: Inlays/onlays are less likely to discolor than a tooth-colored resin filling.
Size: A standard composite filling may becomes smaller as it cures. On the other hand, inlays/onlays won't shrink with time.
Preservation: Dental onlays allow our dentists to preserve the healthy tooth structure while restoring the damaged or decayed areas, this allows for functional longevity.
Contact Us
Request an appointment, or contact the office of Dr. Andrew Mutch.
