Customized Restorations for Damaged or Decayed Teeth
What Are Inlays/Onlays?
Dentist Eden Prairie
Inlays and onlays are custom dental restorations designed to repair and reinforce damaged or decayed teeth, offering a strong and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional fillings and crowns. Unlike fillings, which are applied directly to the tooth, inlays and onlays are precisely crafted in a dental lab to fit your tooth’s unique shape. An inlay fills cavities within the central area of the tooth, providing a secure restoration without covering the tooth’s cusps. Onlays, on the other hand, extend to cover one or more cusps, making them ideal for larger areas of damage.
These restorations are particularly beneficial for treating issues like large or failing fillings, fractured cusps, or significant decay. With their custom fit and natural appearance, inlays and onlays blend seamlessly with your smile, offering a discreet solution that mimics the look and feel of natural teeth. When well-maintained, they provide a long-lasting, durable restoration that helps maintain both the health and beauty of your smile.
Benefits of Inlays/Onlays
1
Natural Appearance
Inlays and onlays are crafted from tooth-colored materials, blending seamlessly for a discreet and beautiful restoration.
2
Durability
These restorations are made to withstand daily chewing forces, providing long-lasting protection for damaged or decayed teeth.
3
Preservation of Tooth Structure
Inlays and onlays require minimal removal of healthy tooth structure, allowing for a more conservative restoration that preserves more of your natural tooth.
How Inlays/Onlays Work
Customized Restorations to Enhance and Protect Your Teeth
Dentist Eden Prairie
Inlays and onlays provide a durable, aesthetically pleasing solution for damaged or decayed teeth. Here’s a breakdown of the process to restore the functionality and appearance of your smile, ensuring a natural-looking, long-lasting result:
Step 1
After evaluating the damage or decay, one of our dentists will remove the affected portion of the tooth, leaving behind a clean, healthy structure. This ensures the inlay or onlay will bond securely to the tooth, offering optimal durability.
Step 2
Impressions of your tooth will be taken to create a custom inlay or onlay that fits your tooth’s unique shape. The restoration is crafted in a dental lab, ensuring precision and a natural, comfortable fit.
Step 3
Once the custom restoration is ready, it will be carefully placed on your tooth. The inlay or onlay will be bonded securely, polished for a smooth, natural look, and adjusted to ensure your bite feels comfortable and functional.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do inlays/onlays last?
With proper care, inlays and onlays can last between 10 to 30 years. Their durability depends on factors like oral hygiene, diet, and the location of the restoration. Regular dental check-ups help ensure their longevity.
Are inlays/onlays better than fillings?
Inlays and onlays are often considered superior to traditional fillings because they are more durable and provide a more natural appearance. They are custom-made for a better fit, offering stronger, longer-lasting results.
Do inlays/onlays require special care?
Inlays and onlays don’t require any special care. You should continue practicing optimal oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and visiting us regularly. Avoiding hard foods will also help preserve the restorations.
Are inlays/onlays painful?
The procedure for placing inlays and onlays is generally comfortable. Local anesthesia is used to ensure a painless experience during the treatment. Some sensitivity may occur after the procedure, but this is temporary.
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Dentist eden prairie
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