Inlays and onlays: Conservative, restorative dentistry at its finest in Ontario, CA
Dr. Mukesh Patel practices conservative dentistry. This approach to dentistry preserves maximum tooth structure. Inlays and onlays in Ontario, CA at Dr. Patel’s office, Ontario Dental Center, are just one example of conservative dentistry “in action.”
Get “in the know” about inlays and onlays
Inlays and onlays are considered to be a less extensive alternative to full-coverage dental crowns. Dental material is prepared and shaped to fill in and repair decayed portions of a tooth. Inlays are appropriate to repair areas of damage that are too big to be effectively repaired with simple fillings. The filling wouldn’t be able to provide the lasting support that the tooth needs to withstand the forces from biting and chewing, which would leave it vulnerable to breakage.
The raised points that surround each tooth are called cusps. Dental inlays are placed within these cusps to restore the damage that is limited to the central part of the teeth within its grooved borders. On the other hand, dental onlays are placed within the cusps as well as over at least one of those points. Consequently, onlays repair a larger portion of the tooth’s surface than inlays.
Both inlays and onlays are used to restore the appearance and strength of teeth that have been damaged in some way by tooth decay, larger cavities, excessive wear, or other trauma. When several cusps of a tooth are marred by extensive decay or breakage, a full-coverage dental crown may be just what Dr. Patel orders.
Inlays and onlays: Conservative dentistry at its finest
Once the inlay or onlay has been securely bonded or fixed to the prepared natural tooth structure, the treated tooth will be indistinguishable from the surrounding teeth in every way — how it looks, feels, and functions. The more the natural tooth structure is conserved, the less the tooth has to be altered. When the tooth is modestly altered, it generally has a more natural appearance. You are also able to chew efficiently and otherwise use your repaired teeth no differently than your unaltered, natural teeth! Once we’ve restored your tooth back to health, you care for it just like you would any other tooth, with excellent oral care and routine visits to Ontario Dental Center. Proudly serving Chino, Montclair, Claremont, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, Pomona, and communities in between, Ontario Dental Center looks forward to meeting you and your family. Call (909) 414-3535 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Patel.
