Dental inlays and onlays are versatile and effective restorative options that offer a middle ground between traditional fillings and full dental crowns. At Radiant Smiles, we understand the importance of preserving the natural structure of your teeth while addressing dental issues. Our commitment to conservative and preventive dental care includes the use of inlays and onlays as valuable tools to help our patients maintain their oral health, restore damaged teeth, and achieve radiant smiles. We offer durable, beautiful inlays and onlays for tooth restoration at our dental center in Arlington, VA.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays are custom-made restorations designed to fit precisely within the contours of the tooth. They are used when a tooth has a moderate amount of decay or damage. Inlays are created from materials like porcelain or composite resin and offer a highly aesthetic solution that blends seamlessly with your natural tooth color.
Onlays, also known as partial crowns, are used when a tooth has more extensive damage or decay that extends to the tooth’s cusps or biting surface. Onlays are crafted to cover and protect a larger portion of the tooth, preserving its strength and functionality. They are highly durable and provide long-term support.
The Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays allow for the preservation of a significant portion of the natural tooth structure. This means less removal of healthy tooth material compared to dental crowns. Dr. Chandna always prefers to utilize conservative dental procedures when possible to protect her patient’s natural teeth. Other benefits of inlays and onlays for tooth repairs include:
- Customization: Inlays and onlays are tailored to the shape and color of your natural teeth, providing an aesthetically pleasing and seamless restoration.
- Strength and Durability: These restorations are constructed from strong materials, usually porcelain, ensuring that the repaired tooth can withstand the forces of biting and chewing.
- Minimal Discomfort: The process of receiving inlays and onlays is generally less invasive and more comfortable for patients, with less tooth sensitivity afterward.
Inlays and onlays can be used to repair damaged teeth or replace tooth material removed due to decay. The restoration is customized to perfectly fit over the tooth and color-matched to blend flawlessly with the other teeth.
If you have a broken or decayed tooth that needs repair or restoration, an inlay or onlay may be the best solution. To learn more about tooth restoration with porcelain inlays or onlays, contact our friendly dental team in Arlington, VA
