Upgrade Your Smile With Inlays & Onlays

Inlays and onlays are restorative options for repairing teeth that have been damaged or decayed. At Westmoreland Family Dentistry in Oviedo, these natural-looking alternatives to amalgam fillings are not only beautiful, but they also strengthen teeth.

What are inlays and onlays?

Inlays are restorations made in a dental lab from porcelain, gold, or composite material. They fit into the existing tooth structure to restore the damaged area of the tooth. Meanwhile, onlays, also known as partial crowns, cover large portions of the existing tooth and are used when significant damage or decay occurs. Like inlays, onlays are made of porcelain, gold, or composite material.

How are inlays and onlays placed?

Inlays and onlays are placed in two steps. First, our dentist will prepare the tooth for restoration by removing any decay or damage to the affected area. An impression of the prepared area is taken and sent to a dental lab, where your custom-made inlay or onlay will be fabricated. Once the inlay or onlay is ready, our dentist will bond it to the prepared tooth with a strong dental adhesive.

What are the benefits of inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays offer significant benefits over other restorative treatments, such as fillings or crowns. Inlays and onlays are much stronger than fillings and can withstand the natural wear and tear of chewing. They also protect healthy tooth structure better than fillings because they cover more surface area. In addition, unlike amalgam fillings, preparation for inlays and onlays does not require the removal of large amounts of the healthy tooth structure, only the damaged or decayed part of the tooth. With proper care and maintenance, they can last up to fifteen years.

Who is a good candidate for inlays and onlays?

Patients with teeth with large areas of decay or damage may need inlays and onlays to restore the tooth’s function. Inlays and onlays look very natural and blend seamlessly with your existing teeth for a healthy-looking smile.

If you need an inlay or onlay, contact Westmoreland Family Dentistry today! Our experienced dentist will evaluate your teeth and determine if this treatment suits you.