Why Choose Dental Onlays & Inlays?
There are many benefits to choosing dental onlays and inlays over traditional fillings or crowns. Here are some of the key advantages:
Durability and Longevity
Dental onlays and inlays are made from highly durable materials, which means they can withstand significant chewing forces. Proper care can last for many years, making them an excellent long-term solution for tooth restoration.
Aesthetic Appeal
Onlays and inlays are custom-crafted to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result. Porcelain and composite resin materials, in particular, blend well with your natural enamel, giving you a restoration that looks just like your real teeth.
Preservation of Natural Tooth Structure
Dental onlays and inlays require less removal of healthy tooth structures than dental crowns. The minimally invasive nature of these restorations means that more of your natural tooth is preserved, which helps maintain its strength and overall health.
Strength and Function
Unlike traditional fillings, which may wear down or break over time, onlays and inlays restore the tooth’s full function. They can improve one’s ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.
Custom Fit
Because dental onlays and inlays are custom-designed to fit your unique tooth, they provide a more precise and secure fit than traditional fillings, reducing the risk of discomfort or additional dental issues.
The Dental Onlays & Inlays Procedure
Getting dental onlays and inlays involves multiple steps, but don’t worry—we’ll guide you through every phase to ensure your comfort and satisfaction. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Examination
During your first visit, we will thoroughly examine your teeth to assess the extent of the damage. We may take X-rays or digital scans to determine if an onlay or inlay is the right treatment for you. We’ll also discuss your dental goals and ensure you’re fully informed about the procedure.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
Once we’ve determined that an onlay or inlay is the right solution, we’ll begin by preparing the affected tooth. This involves removing any decay and cleaning the area. In the case of an onlay, we may need to reshape the tooth’s outer surface, including the cusps. We’ll focus on cleaning and reshaping the grooves or biting surfaces for inlays.
Step 3: Impressions
After the tooth is prepared, we’ll take precise impressions of your tooth. These impressions will be sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom onlay or inlay will be fabricated. If necessary, we may place a temporary restoration to protect the tooth while the permanent one is being made.
Step 4: Placement of the Permanent Restoration
Once your custom onlay or inlay is ready, you’ll return to Crescent Family and Cosmetic Dentistry for the final placement. We will carefully check the fit of the restoration to ensure it aligns properly with your bite and looks natural. After ensuring everything is perfect, we’ll bond the onlay or inlay to your tooth using a strong dental adhesive.
When are Onlays & Inlays Needed?
- Moderate Decay or Damage: When a cavity or damage is too extensive for a filling but not severe enough to require a crown.
- Cracked or Fractured Teeth: To repair and reinforce the structure of a cracked or weakened tooth.
- Replacement for Old Fillings: For replacing large, worn, or unsightly fillings to improve function and appearance.
Personalized Care for Long-Lasting Results
At Crescent Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand that every smile is unique. That’s why we customize your treatment to match your specific needs and goals. Our skilled team uses state-of-the-art technology and high-quality materials to ensure your onlay or inlay provides the perfect combination of function and aesthetics.
Protect and Restore Your Smile with Onlays & Inlays in Sumter, SC
Don’t let damaged or decayed teeth compromise your smile or oral health. At Crescent Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re here to help you restore your teeth with durable, natural-looking onlays and inlays. Our expert team is dedicated to delivering high-quality care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how dental onlays and inlays can transform your smile!