Inlays and Onlays in Queen Creek, AZ
Are you searching online for a family dentist near you that provides conservative treatment options? If so, Dr. Elena Alexander and her team at Alexander Family Dental have a solution you may want to consider: dental inlays and onlays near you. Two of the most valued benefits of inlays and onlays over other treatment options are that they are more durable and require less removal of the natural tooth to complete.
Conservative Dentistry from Our Dentist Near You
When you visit us for your dental restoration, our dental care team will provide you with a customized treatment plan that includes all treatment options so you can make the best choice based on your personal needs. Whether you choose an inlay or onlay (also known as indirect fillings) for their durability or another option such as a dental crown, we’ll make sure that you have the information you need ahead of your treatment.
One factor that many patients value about inlays and onlays from our dentist is that the treatment can be completed in one appointment. If efficiency is as important to you as durability, then inlays and onlays make the ideal choice for you and your family. Also, if your goal is a natural-looking restoration, dental inlays and onlays are available in tooth-colored porcelain material.
Learn More Now
As a leading comprehensive dentist in Queen Creek, AZ, Dr. Alexander and her team provide modern dentistry solutions that you may not have considered. We invite you to make an appointment now to learn more about the complete suite of services provided at Alexander Family Dental.
FAQ's
Inlays and onlays are highly custom-made restorations utilized to restore teeth that are damaged or decayed. An inlay fits within the grooves of a tooth, on the other hand an onlay covers one or more cusps (the pointed parts) of the tooth. Both provide strength, protection, and restore the tooth’s appearance.
Far from traditional fillings, which are applied directly to the cavity, inlays and onlays are made in a dental lab and then cemented to the tooth. This allows for a more durable, precise, and customized fit.
Common materials include porcelain, composite resin, and gold. Porcelain and composite resin are tooth-colored, making them ideal for visible teeth, while gold is highly durable and biocompatible.
Inlays and onlays are the best for teeth that have moderate damage or decay. They offer a more conservative option than crowns, preserving more of the natural, original tooth structure while providing durability and a better fit than traditional fillings.
With great care, inlays and onlays can last many years, typically 10-15 years or more. Their longevity depends on factors such as the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and if you grind your teeth.
Porcelain as well as composite resin inlays and onlays are designed to blend closely with the natural color of your teeth, making them almost indistinguishable from your natural tooth structure.
The procedure usually requires two visits. During the very first visit, the dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth, takes an impression, and places a temporary restoration. The permanent inlay or onlay is then fabricated in a lab. At the second visit, the permanent restoration is fixed to the tooth.
The procedure is generally pain-free, as local anesthesia is used to numb the area. After the procedure, some mild discomfort or sensitivity may happen, but it can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Maintaining optimal oral hygiene by consistent brushing and flossing is important. Avoid chewing too hard and sticky foods on the restored tooth to prevent any damage. Regular check-ups with your trusted dentist will help ensure the longevity of the restoration.
The process typically takes two visits. The first visit is about preparing the tooth and placing a temporary restoration, while the second visit is when the permanent inlay or onlay is placed and bonded to the tooth. Each visit generally lasts about an hour or so.
