1185 W Carmel Dr. #D2, Carmel, IN 46032
Purpose and Function
Dental inlays and onlays can be made from porcelain, gold, composite or ceramic resin, although porcelain is now becoming our material of choice because of its strength and potential to match the natural color of your tooth. Here at Alvarez Dentistry we are always looking to bring our patients the very best alternatives in dental technology.
A dental inlay or dental onlay is similar to a filling and lies inside the cusp tips of the tooth. They are both custom-made to fit the prepared cavity and are then cemented into place. A Dental Onlay is a more extensive reconstruction that covers one or more cusps of a tooth. Onlays are indicated in situations where a substantial reconstruction is required. However, more of the tooth structure can be conserved compared to the placement of a crown.
At Alvarez Dentistry, the dental inlays and onlays can be designed and placed in one appointment. A patient in the past would have needed two appointments for inlays and onlays. With Dr. Alvarez's use of CEREC technology (CAD-CAM), everything can be done in one appointment.
The advantages of using a dental inlay or onlay are manifold. For example:
- They are highly esthetic;
- No metal shows;
- Strong once bonded to tooth;
- Achievement of a well-sealed tooth;
- Stain-resistant;
- Adds good insulation to the tooth;
- Well-suited for large cavities;
- Long-lasting.
