When it comes to repairing damaged teeth, many patients are familiar with fillings and crowns. However, there’s another option that offers both strength and aesthetic appeal: dental inlays and onlays. At the office of William V. Dougherty DDS in Falls Church, VA, Dr. William Dougherty offers these restorations to treat teeth that are too damaged for a traditional filling but do not require a full dental crown. Understanding what inlays and onlays are and how they work can help you make an informed choice for your smile.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Dental inlays are custom-made restorations that fit snugly within the grooves of a tooth, repairing areas affected by decay or damage. Onlays are similar but cover one or more of the cusps, providing additional support and protection. Both are typically made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin, which mimic the natural color and texture of your teeth. This ensures that your smile looks seamless and natural after treatment.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
One of the biggest advantages of inlays and onlays is that they preserve more of your natural tooth structure compared to traditional crowns. Since less of the healthy tooth needs to be removed, your overall tooth integrity is maintained. In addition to preserving your natural teeth, these restorations are highly durable. They can last for many years with proper care, resisting wear and reducing the risk of future fractures.
Inlays and onlays also restore the function of your teeth. They strengthen damaged areas, allowing you to bite and chew comfortably without worrying about further damage. The custom fit ensures a stable and comfortable bite, which contributes to better overall oral health.
The Procedure for Inlays and Onlays
The process of getting inlays or onlays at William V. Dougherty DDS usually requires two visits. During the first appointment, Dr. Dougherty will remove any decay or damaged tooth material and take precise impressions of your tooth. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom inlay or onlay is crafted to match the shape and color of your natural teeth.
At your second visit, Dr. Dougherty will carefully place and bond the restoration to your tooth. The fit is checked to ensure that it aligns perfectly with your bite, providing both comfort and functionality. The result is a strong, durable, and natural-looking restoration that blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
Caring for Your Inlays and Onlays
Caring for dental inlays and onlays is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Maintaining good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing is essential to prevent decay around the restoration. Routine dental checkups at William V. Dougherty DDS will allow Dr. Dougherty to monitor the condition of your inlays and onlays and address any issues early. Avoiding excessive force, like chewing ice or hard candies, can also help prolong their lifespan.
Are Inlays and Onlays Right for You?
Inlays and onlays are ideal for patients with moderate tooth damage, such as cavities that are too large for a filling or areas with old, failing restorations. They are a conservative, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing solution that helps maintain your natural tooth structure while restoring function.
Conclusion
Dental inlays and onlays at William V. Dougherty DDS offer a versatile solution for restoring damaged teeth. They provide strength, durability, and natural aesthetics while preserving more of your healthy tooth structure compared to crowns. Whether you are dealing with decay, old fillings, or wear and tear, these restorations can help you maintain a confident, functional, and beautiful smile for years to come.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. William Dougherty today to find out if inlays and onlays are the right choice for your oral health. With proper care and expert dental attention, these restorations can help you enjoy a healthy, strong, and natural-looking smile.
