Viera dentist, Dentist in Viera, FL

Cosmetic Inlays & Onlays

We believe in conserving as much of your own tooth structure as possible when a tooth is to be fixed. As as result of this philosophy, we may restore your tooth with inlays or onlays to preserve more tooth structure versus a crown. An inlay or onlay is like a puzzle piece that fits perfectly into the remaining portion of the tooth to help increase its strength. This piece is usually crafted out of porcelain, composite, or gold. The inlay or onlay is made at a dental laboratory and will later be permanently cemented on your tooth.

The difference between an inlay and an onlay is where the restoration will be positioned on your tooth. If the restoration is located within the cusps or grooves of the tooth, it is an inlay (laying the restoration "in" the tooth). An onlay covers one or more of the cusps on the tooth (laying the restoration "on" the tooth). In other words, depending on how damaged your tooth is will determine the size of the restoration. If the problem is small, an inlay may be used. If the damage is larger, an onlay or crown must be used.

Procedure

We start by adequately numbing your tooth that is to receive the inlay or onlay. We then remove all remaining filling material, decay, or fractures and place a protective lining on the base of the cavity floor. We will then shape the tooth to its final shape. Next, we will take a final impression of your teeth. This impression is sent to the dental laboratory and is what the lab will use to make your new restoration. We will fabricate you a temporary white acrylic onlay or inlay that will be cemented on the tooth. At delivery, we will remove the temporary onlay or inlay, clean the tooth, and take an x-ray to verify its fit. Once verified, the restoration will be permanently cementated and polished. The dental assistant will then review your post op instructions and educate you on home care.