Inlays and Onlays in Camarillo, CA 93010
Cavities and dental decay are common oral health issues. Usually, fillings and crowns are used to address these concerns. But in some situations, the damage can be so bad that these more traditional methods are simply not enough to resolve the problem.
When this is the case, your dentist may recommend the use of dental inlays and onlays to fill in areas of the teeth where gaps may exist. The process is more involved than that of a traditional filling but is much less intrusive than a crown, which often requires that the teeth be reshaped.
What’s the Difference Between Inlays and Onlays?
A dental inlay is a filling that is pre-molded to fit within the grooves of your tooth. It is centered in your tooth rather than along the outer edges or cusps. Inlays are usually made from gold or ceramic materials.
Onlays, on the other hand, don’t just fill in cavities. They are designed to cover larger areas of the tooth, including the cusps. They are similar in design to crowns, except that onlays do not cover the entire surface of the tooth. While they serve the same purpose and are made from the same materials, onlays and crowns protect different areas of the tooth against further damage from decay.
Wondering if inlays and onlays are the right choices? Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn what options are available for inlays and onlays near you.
What to Expect During A Procedure for Inlays or Onlays
Inlay and onlay procedures can usually be completed within two visits. If the patient has evidence of tooth decay, the dentist will first need to treat the tooth before the process can move forward. If the tooth is chipped or fractured, it will need to be reshaped so that the inlay or onlay fits properly.
The dentist will then make an impression of the tooth. That impression will be used to create a mold for your custom inlay or onlay. A ceramic, porcelain, gold, or silver material will help to form the prosthetic. We will do our best to match the color of the tooth so that the inlay or onlay is less noticeable once it is installed.
While your inlay or onlay is being created at our on-site lab, you will be given a temporary prosthetic piece that will be removed by your dentist at your following appointment. After ensuring that the custom-made appliance has the proper fit, your inlay or onlay will be bonded to your existing tooth structure using a resin adhesive. Lastly, the polish is applied for a smooth finish.
During the procedure, you will be given a local anesthetic to minimize pain and discomfort.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays When Compared to Metal Fillings
Inlays and onlays use hardwearing materials, which makes them extremely durable. They help to strengthen the underlying tooth, reducing the need for additional dental procedures in the future. Inlays and onlays are roughly 75% more effective than metal fillings for improving the strength of your teeth.
Get Inlays and Onlays Near You
If you have damaged or cracked teeth, dental inlays, and onlays are the most effective treatments available. The team at Woodcreek Dental provides patients with inlays and onlays in Camarillo, CA 93010. Call us today at (805) 482-6389 to schedule your consultation!