At Dental Care of Greensboro, our primary goal is maintaining healthy, functional smiles. We are proud to offer quality restorative services, including inlays and onlays, to restore the health, form, and function of teeth with too much damage to be repaired using traditional dental fillings, but not enough damage to warrant the use of dental crowns. Talk to one of our team members to determine if an inlay or onlay is right for you.
Inlays and Onlays Overview
Inlays and onlays are restorations we use to repair large cavities or hold together and strengthen damaged teeth. They can be custom made of composite resin, which is gentle on the opposing teeth, but the material is prone to wear and discoloration. Most of our patients prefer porcelain inlays and onlays because of how closely we can color and texture-match them to the surrounding teeth, with dramatic results. Moreover, the material is incredibly strong and durable, with the potential of lasting 30 years or more with proper care.
Inlays vs. Onlays
Inlays and onlays are known as indirect fillings because they are fabricated at a dental laboratory and require two appointments for placement. Inlays are similar to traditional fillings, except that they are used to repair much larger cavities. They bond to the chewing surfaces of damaged teeth, restoring their strength, form, function, and integrity. Onlays, also known as partial crowns, are conservative restorations that require the removal of less natural tooth structure than dental crowns. An onlay covers the chewing surfaces of a damaged tooth along with one or more of its cusps, as opposed to a crown which covers the entire visible portion of a tooth.
Caring for Your Restorations
Caring for teeth restored with inlays and onlays is no different than caring for your natural teeth. You’ll need to follow a meticulous oral hygiene care routine, including regular brushing and flossing, to maintain your oral health. Don’t forget to visit Dental Care of Greensboro for your routine dental exams and cleanings. That will allow us to monitor your restorations and ensure they stay in tip-top shape.
Durable Inlays and Onlays In Greensboro
Visit Dental Care of Greensboro to learn more about inlays and onlays and how they can restore your healthy smile. Our team is happy to answer your questions and help you make the best decision for your budget and your smile. We are here to support your oral health every step of the way. Call us and schedule your appointment today!