Inlays and Onlays in Beverly Hills
Inlays and onlays strengthen a tooth when over half of the biting area is damaged or decayed. These dental restorations are made of porcelain or Emax, providing a durable and natural-looking solution to old fillings and significant surface damage. An inlay is when the material fits inside the cusp tips of the tooth, and an onlay is when the material extends onto the chewing surface and replaces one or more cusps.
Dr. Steven Goldy in Beverly Hills uses the most durable and biocompatible materials in dentistry and works to provide a luxurious and pain-free experience to his patients. Our dentist is known for his eye for aesthetics and spectacular results. Whether you wish to address tooth flaws or require dental restorations for damaged teeth, Dr. Goldy can deliver a beautiful, healthy smile.
Are You a Candidate for Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are an alternative to dental crowns for significantly damaged teeth and can replace unsightly metal fillings. These dental restorations are molded to match the shade of your natural teeth and bond to the tooth surface to strengthen its integrity. People with tooth decay or damage that is too extensive for a traditional dental filling but not severe enough to require a dental crown can benefit from inlays and onlays. There must be a sufficient amount of remaining tooth structure to support an inlay or onlay.
Dr. Goldy will examine your teeth and gums and order X-rays to determine if inlays or onlays are the best way to restore the tooth and improve the function and cosmetic appeal of your smile.
What Are the Benefits of Inlays and Onlays?
Onlays salvage more of the tooth structure than dental crowns, and Dr. Goldy uses Emax onlays made with a porcelain and lithium disilicate mixture. The Emax material is a stronger type of ceramic that is resistant to staining, chips and breakage. While traditional fillings weaken the natural tooth structure by up to 50%, porcelain inlays and onlays are made with high-strength material that bonds directly to the tooth, strengthening it by up to 75%. Porcelain inlays and onlays look like your natural tooth and can avoid the need for an entire dental crown.
What Do the Inlay and Onlay Procedures Entail?
Placing an inlay or onlay requires two appointments like other dental restorations. During your first visit with Dr. Goldy, the tooth is prepped by removing the tooth’s old filling or decayed area. A mold impression of the tooth is created and sent to a lab to customize the inlay or Emax onlay for the best fit and bite. Dr. Goldy places a temporary restoration on the tooth to protect the vulnerable area until the onlay or inlay is ready.
The second appointment is when Dr. Goldy secures the permanent inlay or onlay to the tooth. He removes the temporary sealant and fits the permanent restoration. A strong resin bonds the inlay or only to the tooth’s surface which is then polished for a smooth finish that mimics natural teeth.
What Kind of Results Can I Expect?
The strong material used for inlays and onlays can last for 10 to 30 years, preventing further damage. Dr. Goldy’s primary goal is to make all dental restorations as undetectable as possible so that you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile without metal, gold or otherwise unsightly dental work.
Inlays and onlays don’t require special care outside of regular dental hygiene. Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day and floss daily. Avoid chewing on ice, pen caps or using your teeth as tools, and schedule regular dental exams for long-lasting inlay and onlay results.
Contact Dr. Steven Goldy in Beverly Hills
If you have unsightly fillings or ongoing tooth decay, schedule a dental exam with Dr. Goldy to see if inlays and onlays are best for your smile. Call our Beverly Hills office at (310) 550-1511 or fill out our online contact form.
