Dental Inlays and Onlays
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth but want to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible, dental inlays and onlays may be the perfect solution. At New England Dental Group, our skilled dentist near Oak Park, IL provides high-quality inlays and onlays to restore teeth with precision and long-lasting durability. This treatment is an excellent alternative to traditional fillings or full dental crowns, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair teeth with mild to moderate decay or minor fractures. Unlike traditional metal fillings, they are crafted from durable materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold, offering a natural-looking and strong solution for damaged teeth.
- Inlays: These restorations fit within the grooves of the tooth, filling in the decayed or damaged area without extending to the cusps (points) of the tooth.
- Onlays: When the damage extends to one or more cusps, an onlay is used to cover and protect the affected areas, providing additional reinforcement.
Our dentist near Oak Park, IL will evaluate your tooth and recommend the best option to restore its strength, appearance, and function.
Benefits of Dental Inlays and Onlays
Choosing inlays and onlays offers several advantages over traditional fillings or crowns:
- Natural Appearance – Porcelain and composite resin inlays and onlays are tooth-colored, making them blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
- Superior Fit & Durability – Unlike metal fillings, inlays and onlays do not expand or contract with temperature changes, reducing the risk of cracks and fractures.
- Longevity – With proper care, inlays and onlays can last up to 30 years, outlasting most other types of dental restorations.
- Minimally Invasive – Unlike crowns, which require more extensive tooth reshaping, inlays and onlays preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
If you need a reliable and long-lasting solution for tooth decay or damage, our dentist near Oak Park, IL can help you determine if inlays or onlays are the right option for you.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Step 1: Initial Consultation & Tooth Preparation
Your first visit to our office will include a thorough dental examination, where our dentist near Oak Park, IL will assess the extent of decay or damage. If an inlay or onlay is the best treatment option, we will take digital impressions of your tooth to ensure a perfect fit for your custom restoration.
Step 2: Temporary Protection
While your inlay or onlay is being fabricated in a dental lab, a temporary filling may be placed over the affected tooth to protect it until your permanent restoration is ready.
Step 3: Final Placement
At your second visit, we will remove the temporary filling and bond your custom inlay or onlay securely onto your tooth. Once placed, your restoration will be polished for a smooth, natural finish, leaving you with a healthier and stronger tooth.
Caring for Your Inlays and Onlays
Maintaining your new restoration is simple:
- Brush and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup around the restoration.
- Avoid biting down on extremely hard objects like ice or pens to prevent damage.
- Schedule routine dental checkups at New England Dental Group to ensure long-term success.
If you’re experiencing tooth damage or decay and want a durable, natural-looking solution, schedule an appointment with our dentist near Oak Park, IL today! We are committed to preserving your smile while providing the highest quality care.
