Inlays and Onlays To Restore Damaged Teeth
When more than half of your tooth is damaged and a normal filling will not suffice to repair the tooth, Dr. Gee may advise replacing the damaged structure of the tooth with an Inlay or an Onlay. This is a very conservative alternative to crowns or fillings.
If the damage is minimal, then an Inlay may be the appropriate treatment. If the damage is more extensive but doesn’t warrant having a crown made, then an Onlay may be the best approach.
Inlays and Onlays are made from porcelain, gold or composite resins that are bonded directly to the surface of your tooth. These materials are significantly stronger then blended metal fillings and can help prevent further damage or decay to your tooth.
The Inlay or Onlay Procedure
The first thing Dr. Gee will do is remove the damaged areas of the tooth including any old fillings you may have. He then takes an impression which is sent to the dental lab where the restoration is constructed.
After the Inlay or Onlay is completed at the lab, Dr. Gee will check for a proper fit and then will bond the restoration to the tooth with a strong resin.
The Benefits Of Inlays or Onlays
If you have old silver fillings in your mouth and ever thought you would like to get rid of them, then this treatment option may be for you. Inlays and Onlays are often used to replace old silver fillings you probably have had since you were a child. This treatment is a far better choice and certainly looks much better than the old silver fillings used in the past.
Just because you have gotten these new restorations, that doesn’t mean you can neglect your teeth or not have problems in the future. You still have to maintain a good at home oral hygiene program in order for your restorations to last for a long time. Prevention can save you time and money and make sure your restorations last like they should.
If you have old silver fillings in your mouth and you would like to get them replaced, then give our office a call today. We would love to discuss with you how we can help you have the smile of your dreams.