Inlays and Onlays

Amalgam dental fillings have had a major role in dentistry for more than a century. This method of restoring damaged teeth has finally become antiquated. Today, there is a new standard of care, which we are happy to provide to our New Hampshire patients. As a healthy, long-lasting, and attractive alternative to amalgam fillings, we offer restoration with tooth-colored inlays and onlays.

Inlays and Onlays Before and After

Inlays and onlays fall into a category between fillings and full crowns. These fully customized restorations allow the highest measure of functionality and beauty. We appreciate the ability to restore teeth without excessive reduction, maintaining our commitment to conservative care and optimal results.

Porcelain inlays and onlays may seem as though they would be somewhat fragile. On the contrary, the high quality porcelain material used in modern dentistry is incredibly strong. The inlays and onlays placed in our office actually add strength to teeth that have been weakened by decay or injury.

Why patients choose inlays and onlays

As dental techniques, materials, and technologies have advanced, the way that teeth are repaired has continually evolved. There are several advantages to porcelain inlays or onlays compared to metal amalgam fillings. Aside from the clear benefit of an aesthetically pleasing restoration, the inlay or onlay also provides a greater service through a less invasive process. Many patients have been able to avoid advanced procedures like root canal therapy or crowns due to the superior fit and function of a well-made inlay or onlay. What are inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays are a type of indirect filling. Restorations that are made to fit within the cusps of a tooth are called inlays. Onlays on the other hand, are restorations that cover at least one cusp of a damaged tooth. Like crowns, they are designed in our office using impressions and advanced imaging. The data gathered during the initial visit is sent to a dental lab, where the restoration is made from high quality material. In a follow-up visit, we bond the final prosthetic to the tooth. The seams of the inlay or onlay are so accurate against surrounding tooth material that the naked eye cannot discern the margins.

We are happy to provide you with the highest standard of dental care in our comfortable New Hampshire office. Contact us today to schedule your visit.