inlays and Onlays in Orlando, FL

Classified somewhere between a dental filling and a crown, inlays and onlays can treat teeth that have moderate decay or damage. Used on the back teeth, a dental inlay covers the concave center of a tooth while an onlay (also called a partial crown) covers at least one of a tooth's upper, rounded edges (cusps). Like dental crowns and fillings, inlays and onlays from Orlando Advanced Dentists can be made in several materials — composite resin, metal, and porcelain. Experienced cosmetic dentist Dr. Patricia Roach is pleased to help Lake Mary, FL patients better understand tooth-colored fillings, crowns, inlays, and onlays so they can make the right decision about how to treat their tooth and bring health and appearance back to their smile.

An onlay or inlay is a good choice if you have a chipped tooth or a cavity that is too large for a filling but does not quite need the entire coverage of a crown. During your dental exam, Dr. Roach will use your digital x-rays to help determine the best restorative procedure for your tooth. If an inlay or onlay is selected, she will explain the available materials that will best meet your requirements and preferences. You can also discuss whether a direct (made within the mouth) or indirect (crafted in a dental lab) inlay or onlay is ideal for restoring your damaged tooth to its original form and function. Dr. Roach uses only the finest quality materials for inlay and onlay restorations, including Empress® all-ceramic restorations, composite resin, and high-grade metals (like gold).

Regardless of your treatment needs, Dr. Roach and our caring team at Orlando Advanced Dentists always place your comfort first. We offer anxiolytic sedation to help keep you relaxed if visiting the dentist makes you feel nervous or anxious. After using a gentle technique to numb your tooth with local anesthesia, Dr. Roach will use the latest in restorative techniques to removing areas of decay or damage. Your tooth will then be thoroughly disinfected and coated with a special desensitizing solution. Once the tooth is cleaned and prepared, impressions will be taken of the tooth. If you are receiving a restoration made in a lab, a temporary filling will be placed until it is prepared. When your onlay or inlay is ready, Dr. Roach will carefully place and bond it onto your tooth using an advanced bonding technique that helps improve treatment results and longevity of your restoration. She will then polish the edges and adjust the fit so your tooth is properly covered and feels comfortable.

If only local anesthesia was used, you will be able to leave after the procedure and return to your normal day. However, you should wait to eat until the anesthesia has fully waned. You may feel some discomfort, inflammation, or sensitivity for several days after your inlay or onlay is placed. Please contact Orlando Advanced Dentists in the event you have any concerns following your procedure. Your onlay or inlay can be cared for just like your natural teeth with daily brushing and flossing. It is essential to keep up with your annual dental exams and biannual cleanings at Orlando Advanced Dentists so that Dr. Roach can assess the health and wear of your onlay or inlay. With good care, your restoration should last for many years to come. 

When a damaged or decayed tooth is causing harm to your oral health, it is important to treat the condition before it becomes a more painful or costlier problem. Inlays and onlays are a viable solution for restoring teeth that are too damaged for a filling but do not need the full protection of a dental crown. To learn more about onlays and inlays to restore your teeth, schedule a consultation at Orlando Advanced Dentists in Orlando, FL as soon as possible. Dr. Roach and our team look forward to helping you improve your oral health and selecting the best treatment option for your unique needs.