At Creekview Dental, our goal is to offer patients dental services that work best for their smile and needs. That’s why we provide custom-made inlays and onlays to restore cavities and tooth decay. Many patients may automatically think of fillings when picturing cavity treatment, but this service offers an alternative for larger areas of decay. Read on to learn more about how we can use inlays and onlays to restore damaged teeth.

WHAT ARE INLAYS & ONLAYS?

You have a big filling that needs replacement. Do you have to get a full dental crown in Denver? Not necessarily. There is a more conservative option: inlays and onlays. These restorations fit into a tooth similar to a filling, yet they are made as a single and solid piece, much like a crown. The bumps on top of a tooth are called cusps. Inlays fit between cusps, while onlays fit over one or more cusps. These restorations allow a patient to retain more natural tooth structure in comparison to a traditional crown, which is always best.

BENEFITS OF INLAYS & ONLAYS

We offer inlays and onlays because of these health and aesthetic benefits:

• Restorations are custom-made with high-quality materials.
• They can last for years with proper care.
• Inlays and onlays eliminate tooth sensitivity.
• They preserve more of your natural dental structure.

DO I NEED AN INLAY OR ONLAY?

Because cavities and other damage are also treated with fillings and dental crowns, how do you know if you’re a candidate for Inlays and Onlays? Not every situation is right for these restorations, which is why the only way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Herman. She will examine the affected area to determine whether or not these restorations are a good choice for your damaged tooth in Denver.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT?

Are Inlays and Onlays require two appointments because they are custom-made in a dental lab. At the first visit, we will prepare your tooth by removing your tooth decay and/or old filling and cleaning the area. We will take a dental impression and send it to our dental lab so that a technician can create a custom Inlay or Onlay for you. Dr. Emelia Herman will determine the best material to use, but in most cases, teeth that show when you smile or speak can have a white restoration. Back teeth incur extreme pressure, so a metal Inlay or Onlay may be recommended. You’ll wear a temporary until the lab delivers your final restoration. At the second appointment, Dr. Herman will remove your temporary restoration and permanently cement your final Inlay or Onlay into position. After polishing and modifying the restoration as necessary to ensure proper bite alignment, you’ll enjoy your stronger, healthier smile for years to come.

SAVE YOUR SMILE TODAY!

If you have dental damage or decay, don’t wait! Contact our office today to get started on a stronger and healthier smile.