Dental Inlays and Onlays Made to Improve Your Smile with Our 60014 Area Dentists
Dental inlays and onlays offer a conservative and effective approach to restoring teeth that have experienced mild to moderate decay or damage. Unlike full crowns, which require significant reshaping of the tooth, inlays and onlays are designed to repair and reinforce the tooth while preserving as much of its natural structure as possible. If you’re seeking skilled 60014 dentists, our team at Windsor Dental are adept at providing these advanced restorative solutions to ensure your dental health and improve the function and appearance of your teeth.
Understanding Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are made from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or occasionally gold. These materials are chosen for their durability and ability to blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth. The key difference between inlays and onlays lies in the extent of coverage:
• Inlays: These are used to restore the central portion of the tooth, effectively filling cavities or damage located within the tooth's surface.
• Onlays: These extend beyond the central area to cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps, providing additional support and protection for more extensive damage.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
1. Natural Appearance: Inlays and onlays are crafted to match the natural color of your teeth, making them virtually invisible compared to traditional metal fillings. This ensures that your restoration blends seamlessly with your smile.
2. Excellent Fit: Unlike metal fillings, which can expand and contract with temperature changes, inlays and onlays are designed to fit precisely within the prepared area of your tooth. This precision helps prevent issues such as gaps or discomfort.
3. Longevity: Inlays and onlays are highly durable and can last up to 30 years with proper care. This longevity surpasses that of most other types of fillings, making them a long-term solution for tooth restoration.
4. Minimal Tooth Structure Removal: These restorations require only minimal removal of the tooth’s surface. This approach helps preserve the maximum amount of healthy tooth structure while effectively addressing areas of decay or damage.
The Inlay and Onlay Procedure
The process for placing dental inlays and onlays typically involves two visits to our practice:
1. First Visit: During your initial appointment, Dr. Prasad will carefully prepare your tooth by removing any decayed or damaged areas. An impression of the prepared tooth is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom inlay or onlay will be created. To protect your tooth while the permanent restoration is being made, a temporary inlay or onlay is placed.
2. Second Visit: When your permanent inlay or onlay is ready, you will return to the office for the final fitting. The temporary restoration is removed, and Dr. Prasad will place the new inlay or onlay. After ensuring a precise fit and making any necessary adjustments, the restoration is securely bonded to your tooth. The final step involves polishing the inlay or onlay to ensure it matches the natural texture and color of your surrounding teeth.
Why Choose Inlays and Onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays provided by our 60014 dentists are an excellent choice for patients seeking a conservative, long-lasting restoration option. They offer a natural appearance, superior fit, and durability that outlasts many other types of fillings. If you have a tooth that requires restoration but want to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible, consider discussing inlays and onlays with our experienced team.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Windsor Dental today. Our 60014 dentists are dedicated to providing high-quality care and helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.