Dental Inlays & Onlays in Northridge, CA

Dental Inlays & Onlays

Dental Inlays and Onlays are an alternative to dental crowns. They can be used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, trauma, or other factors that compromise the integrity of the tooth structure. Like crowns, they are strong restorations that help hold your natural teeth in place.

Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain (ceramic) or metal alloys such as gold or platinum. The choice depends on what type of restoration will be most durable for your case — whether it’s strength against abrasion, durability against wear, aesthetics, or budget constraints. An inlay is placed on top of a single damaged tooth while an onlay might extend across several teeth with similar issues.

A common use for these restorations is when the outer surface of the tooth has been worn away, exposing the dentin underneath. Dental inlays are a metal-free alternative made from composite resin, while dental onlays are metal bonded to natural teeth. Both types of restorations can be made to match the color of your teeth so they look as natural as possible when inserted into your mouth.

Dental Crown Alternatives

Dental inlays and onlays are an alternative to dental crowns. A full-coverage restoration, dental inlays, and onlays are used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma. A common use for these restorations is when the outer surface of the tooth has been worn away, exposing the dentin underneath. Dental inlays are a metal-free alternative made from composite resin, while dental onlays are metal bonded to natural teeth. Both types of restorations can be made to match the color of your teeth so they look as natural as possible when inserted into your mouth.

What Are Dental Inlays?

Inlays are typically used as an alternative option for missing molars (back teeth) because they don’t involve removing any of the surrounding healthy tooth structure during the procedure as other types of fillings do.

The cost of dental inlays varies widely depending on your dentist and the type of material used. 

Pros and cons of dental inlays:

Pros:

• Dental inlay can last up to 10 years if cared for properly
• Inlays can improve oral health by preventing cavities from forming along neighboring teeth

 Cons:

• Dental Inlays are the better option over traditional filling and naturally will cost you more.

What Are Dental Onlays?

Dental onlays are replacements for damaged or decayed teeth. They are very strong and durable. They can be used in the front, sides, and/or back of your mouth (wherever you have dental deterioration). A dental onlay is a custom-made tooth shaped like a slice of cake that replaces one of your natural teeth. They are bonded to the natural tooth with dental cement or similar material which provides strength, durability, and longevity.

Pros:

•  They are a very good way to cover tooth discoloration and decrease the chance of cavities.
• Dental onlays are the alternative to crowns.

Cons:

• If you don’t take proper care of your dental onlay, it can lead to more dental visits.

What type of problems do dental inlays and dental onlays fix?

Dental inlays and Onlays are used to fix chips and cracks in teeth, as well as worn down teeth. They can also be used to repair teeth that have been damaged by grinding.

What is the procedure for getting a dental inlay or onlay?

The procedure for getting a dental inlay or onlay is simple and painless. As with any other type of dentistry, you will need to visit your dentist first to ensure that the procedure is right for you and that there are no underlying issues that could affect it. Your dentist will also examine your teeth and gums to determine if they have enough room for the treatment plan they have in mind. If they don’t, they can help craft an alternative course of action with you so that you can get the best results possible out of this type of dental work.

The next step involves preparation:

• A preliminary exam and x-rays will be taken so that your dentist can see what’s underneath all those layers of enamel, dentin, pulp tissue, and other parts of your tooth (these are all visible through x-rays). This allows them to see how much space there is between existing teeth and whether there needs a larger gap filled with porcelain or cementum base material before going ahead with treatment plans involving crowns or other cosmetic enhancements on top thereof (such as resin composite fillings).
• The next step involves removing old fillings around existing crowns or caps; these may become loose over time due to wear from normal use but could still serve as useful anchors during this process by providing extra support where needed most – namely under new ones being installed later down line.

A Better Option

For some dental issues, inlays and onlays can be a better option than crowns. If you have worn down teeth or dental decay that has eaten away at the enamel, dental inlays and onlays may be able to prevent further damage while preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible. They are also less invasive than a full-coverage crown, meaning they will be easier to clean and maintain long-term. Additionally, because they are smaller than most crowns—often just filling up a small area instead of covering the entire smile—they tend to cost less than other types of restorative treatments like dentures or implants.

In conclusion, dental inlays and onlays are viable options for treating tooth damage that is not severe enough to require crowns. If you have more questions about the procedure or any other aspect of your oral health, please feel free to contact us at our office and we will be happy to assist you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do dental veneers last?

Dental veneers can last 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care and maintenance. Caring for your veneers should include daily brushing, flossing, rinsing the mouth after meals, minimizing your intake of sugary foods and beverages and tobacco products, and visiting your dentist for routine dental visits. 

Are veneers reversible?

The tooth preparation process is irreversible, as your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel to create room for the veneers. However, they can be replaced or updated. Routinely visiting your dentist can help extend their lifespan and allow you to ask any questions about updating your treatment as needed. 

Are dental veneers painful to get?

The veneer procedure is usually painless and is performed with patients under dental sedation or a local anesthetic to ensure their comfort. Afterward, you may feel slight soreness or increased sensitivity, but this will subside as your mouth becomes accustomed to your tooth veneers. You can also manage this with over-the-counter pain management medications. 

Can I eat normally with dental veneers?

Yes, you can eat your favorite foods with dental veneers. However, avoid biting into hard objects to prevent damage. You should also maintain a healthy diet and visit your dentist regularly for suggestions about keeping your porcelain veneers looking and feeling perfect.