Inlays & Onlays in San Diego, CA
In San Diego, CA, individuals can access high-quality dental restorations known as inlays and onlays. These procedures address damaged or decayed teeth, offering an effective solution with subtle differences in coverage.
Inlays primarily focus on repairing the inner part of a tooth located between the cusps or points. These custom-made restorations are fabricated in dental labs to match the size and shape of the damaged area perfectly because they contain materials such as porcelain, gold, or composite resin. Once ready, the dentist cements the inlay into place. They are excellent for treating teeth with mild to moderate decay or damage.
Onlays, however, are utilized for more extensive tooth repairs. They cover larger areas of the tooth, including one or more cusps. Similar to inlays, onlays are custom-made in dental labs and can be composed of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. The dentist also cements the onlay into place, providing a comprehensive restoration for the tooth.
Both inlays and onlays offer effective solutions for dental damage caused by decay or injury. They are excellent alternatives to traditional dental fillings, offering increased durability and a more natural appearance. Ultimately, your dentist will evaluate the extent of your tooth damage and your unique requirements to determine whether an inlay or onlay is ideal.
If you’re seeking exceptional inlays and onlays in San Diego, CA, or nearby areas, you can find top-notch dental services that cater to your needs.
FAQS
Inlays and onlays refer to custom restorations used to repair teeth that are too damaged for a filling but not damaged enough to need a full crown. They are bonded to the tooth to restore shape, strength, and function while preserving as much natural structure as possible.
Your dentist will evaluate the size and location of the damage. Inlays fit right within the grooves of the tooth, on the other hand onlays extend over one or more cusps. Both options offer a strong, long-lasting solution for moderate decay or fractures.
They are generally made from porcelain or ceramic materials that match your natural tooth color. These materials are strong, stain-resistant, and designed to blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth.
With good home care and regular checkups, inlays and onlays can last many years. Their durability often exceeds that of large fillings because they are custom-made for a precise fit.
Your dentist will remove any decay, take digital or traditional impressions, and place a temporary restoration if needed. Once the custom inlay or onlay is fully ready, it is bonded very securely to the tooth. Some offices even offer same-day options using digital technology.
The procedure is typically comfortable thanks to local anesthesia. After treatment, any mild sensitivity usually improves within a few days. Most patients get back to normal activities shortly after the appointment.
Caring for them is similar to caring for original, natural teeth: brush twice a day, floss daily, and attend routine dental visits. Avoid chewing ice or very hard foods to prevent unnecessary stress on the restoration. Your dentist at Scripps Poway Dental Care will check it during future visits.
