Patients unhappy with the way their old fillings look can explore inlays and onlays. While silver and gold dental fillings were popular for a long time, new technology and procedures mean patients can explore treatments that more closely match the natural appearance of teeth.
At Charming Smiles of La Quinta, we proudly help patients improve their smiles and confidence. One way we do this is by replacing their old fillings with attractive new inlays and onlays.
What Are Inlays?
Resin inlays replace a tiny section of a tooth structure caused by a cavity. Originally, only gold compiled inlay.
Today, however, you can obtain inlays that are porcelain, ceramic, or a unique dental composite material. Both the inlay and bonding materials are tooth-colored.
What Are Onlays?
Onlays work similarly to inlays since they plug missing holes triggered by cavities. However, onlays extend to a tooth’s chewing surface, replacing one or additional cusps.
Like inlays, onlays traditionally only used gold, but today patients can choose tooth-colored options. Patients with large cavities or decayed regions expanding over their tooth’s top can benefit more from onlays.
Onlays Versus Dental Crownsnt
Onlays are more cost-effective than dental crowns, and patients find them less invasive because they remove less of a tooth’s structure. However, depending on a patient’s dental needs, sometimes a dental crown is the better solution.
At Charming Smiles of La Quinta, we always provide our patients with a comparative evaluation. During this evaluation, we can determine if inlays, onlays, or dental crowns work better for your needs.
How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last?
Patients exercising the proper dental treatments can expect their inlays and onlays to last 20 years or more.
Call Our Office Today
Inlays and onlays are attractive and natural alternatives to traditional cavity fillings.
La Quinta, CA, residents can call our team at Charming Smiles of La Quinta at (760) 354-8376 to schedule an appointment!
