Questions About Dental Inlays/Onlays

Modesto, Manteca, Ceres, Turlock, Salida, Ripon, California Dentist

 

What are dental inlays/onlays?

 

Dental inlays and onlays are made of porcelain and are custom-made to fill cavities, cracks or breaks in teeth.

 

What’s the difference between a dental inlay and a dental onlay?

 

A dental inlay is typically smaller and is used to fill an area within a tooth’s cusps. A dental onlay is used to fill a tooth in which the damage includes the surface structure and one or more cusps.

 

Am I a candidate for dental inlays/onlays?

 

If you have cavities, old metal fillings that need to be replaced, or damaged teeth that may otherwise be treated with fillings, dental inlays/onlays may be for you. An examination with one of the experienced Modesto dentists at Sierra Dental Care will determine if dental inlays/onlays are a solution to your specific condition. Inlays/onlays are not a fix-all; if too much of a tooth is damaged, a crown may be necessary to cover the remaining tooth.

 

How are dental inlays/onlays placed?

 

First, your affected tooth is cleaned. Then digital images of the tooth will be taken to provide a model for your inlay/onlay. Using CEREC technology, your custom-made porcelain inlay/onlay will be created in a matter of minutes. Your inlay/onlay will then be bonded to the affected tooth with dental cement and polished to a natural-looking finish.

 

Is the dental inlay/onlay procedure painful?

 

No. Although you may experience temporary, minor discomfort in the affected area, the placement of inlays/onlays is generally a painless procedure.

 

What is the recovery process from dental inlay/onlay placement?

 

Recovery from a dental inlay/onlay procedure is usually immediate, with any residual discomfort lasting only a couple days and treatable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

 

Do inlays/onlays require special care?

 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is generally enough to care for your dental inlays/onlays. You should brush your teeth at least twice per day, floss at least once daily and visit your Modesto general dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings.

 

How long do inlays/onlays last?

 

With proper oral hygiene, your dental inlays/onlays should last as long as your natural teeth.

 

What are the benefits of porcelain dental inlays/onlays?

 

Porcelain inlays/onlays match the appearance of your natural teeth and are virtually unnoticeable to others. Porcelain inlays/onlays are also durable and help protect damaged teeth, which can prevent future dental work.

 

If you would like to schedule an appointment to learn if dental inlays or onlays might be right for you, please contact the experienced Modesto dentists at Sierra Dental Care. Sierra Dental Care provides quality general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry to patients in the Modesto, Ripon, Ceres, Salida, Turlock, and Manteca, California, areas.