Porcelain Inlays and Onlays

Porcelain inlays and onlays are dental restorations commonly used to repair damaged teeth that experience mild to moderate levels of decay. They are able to fill larger holes than can be accomplished using dental fillings, and they preserve more of your natural tooth structure than dental crowns.

These versatile restorations are made out of dental porcelain. They can be customized to match the color of your natural teeth, ensuring a beautiful result that will blend in seamlessly with your smile. Decatur cosmetic dentist Dr. Roderick Cooper often recommends porcelain inlays and onlays as an ideal solution to:

• Repair fractured teeth
• Replace old metal fillings
• Repair damage caused by tooth decay
• Fill cavities between your teeth
• Cover large fillings

Porcelain Inlays

Porcelain inlays repair damage contained within the cusps of your teeth. Your restoration can be completed in two visits to Dr. Cooper’s office. At your first appointment, Dr. Cooper will remove all decay and prepare your tooth for the inlay. Next, he will take an impression of your tooth which will be sent to the dental lab for use in constructing your porcelain inlay. A temporary inlay is then placed on your tooth to protect it while your permanent inlay is being fabricated.

When your permanent inlay has been completed, you will return to Dr. Cooper’s office to have it placed on your tooth. You will experience no downtime, and you can resume all regular activities as soon as the procedure is complete.

Porcelain Onlays

Porcelain onlays repair decay that extends to one or more cusps. The procedure to place a porcelain onlay is similar to the one used with inlays. Dr. Cooper will remove decay and prepare the tooth. An impression is then taken and sent to the lab. You will receive a temporary onlay at this appointment as well.

When you return to our office, Dr. Cooper will remove the temporary onlay and place the permanent one on your tooth.

Benefits of Porcelain Inlays and Onlays

Porcelain inlays and onlays are a very effective way to repair damaged teeth and prevent the need for more extensive procedures such as dental crowns, dental bridges, or dental implants down the road. Inlays and onlays also preserve more of your natural tooth structure than alternative restoration options such as dental crowns.

Other benefits of porcelain inlays and onlays include:

• Highly durable
• Provide additional strength to damaged teeth
• Custom fit to your tooth, providing a better fit than dental fillings
• Resistant to stains and discoloration
• Easy to clean, making oral hygiene maintenance easier
• Seal teeth and keep out bacteria more effectively than dental fillings

Please contact Bella Dental Services today to schedule your initial consultation. Dr. Roderick Cooper serves patients in Tucker, Decatur, Clarkston, and Stone Mountain, Georgia.