Inlays and Onlays

Dentist Serving Encinitas, CA

At Encinitas Dental Art, we understand that every tooth has a story and sometimes, that story involves restoration. When a significant portion of a tooth’s biting surface is compromised, inlays and onlays offer an excellent, conservative solution to restore the tooth’s integrity and appearance. Unlike traditional fillings, inlays and onlays provide a stronger, longer-lasting repair for tooth decay or damage, combining aesthetic enhancement with functional durability.

The Advantage of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays, often referred to as indirect fillings, are crafted from porcelain, gold, or composite resin, and are custom-fitted to address decay or damage. These restorations are meticulously bonded to the damaged area, offering a precise fit and a restoration that is virtually indistinguishable from your natural tooth.

  • Inlays: Used when the damage is confined within the cusps (or bumps) of a tooth.
  • Onlays: Employed when the damage extends over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.

While traditional fillings weaken the tooth structure by up to 50%, inlays and onlays made from durable materials can actually enhance the tooth’s strength by up to 75%, lasting from 10 to 30 years.

Inlays and Onlays

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Material Choices for Aesthetics and Function

    • Porcelain: Matches your tooth color and is preferred for its aesthetic qualities, especially in visible areas.

    • Gold: Known for its durability and strength, making it an excellent choice for the molars where aesthetics are less of a concern.

    • Composite Resin: Ideal for patients with bruxism (teeth grinding) or those with a misaligned bite, providing a balance between aesthetics and function.

Our team at Encinitas Dental Art will guide you in choosing the best material based on your specific needs, aesthetic preferences, and the location of your restoration.

The Inlays and Onlays Procedure

Getting an inlay or onlay typically requires two visits to our office. The process is as follows:

    1. First Visit: We remove any decay or old filling material and prepare the tooth for the inlay or onlay. An impression of your tooth is taken to ensure a custom fit, and a temporary restoration is placed to protect the tooth while your inlay or onlay is crafted in a dental lab.

    1. Second Visit: The temporary restoration is removed, and we carefully fit and bond the inlay or onlay to your tooth. Precision is key to ensure a seamless integration with your tooth structure, optimizing function and appearance.

Why Choose Encinitas Dental Art?

    • Expertise: Our dentists specialize in restorative procedures, ensuring that your inlays and onlays are crafted and placed with the utmost precision.

    • Advanced Technology: We utilize the latest in dental technology to create restorations that offer superior fit and aesthetics.

    • Conservative Approach: We prioritize treatments that preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible, promoting long-term oral health.

    • Customized Care: Every patient’s dental needs are unique. We provide personalized care plans to meet your specific requirements, ensuring results that not only look beautiful but also stand the test of time.

Enhance Your Smile and Oral Health

Inlays and onlays are more than just a treatment option at Encinitas Dental Art; they are a testament to our commitment to preserving your oral health and enhancing the beauty of your smile with meticulous care and precision. If you’re seeking a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution to tooth decay or damage, inlays and onlays may be the ideal choice for you.

Contact Encinitas Dental Art today to schedule a consultation. Let us restore your smile’s brilliance and function with the artistry and expertise you deserve.

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