Inlays and Onlays Treatment

Skilled dental care professionals have plenty of treatments that they can use to help patients get the smiles that they have always wanted. It\’s important that dentists use the right treatment for the right problem. When you meet with a Shreveport cosmetic dentist, you may be told that inlays and onlays are ideal for your dental care issue. Many patients are not aware of what inlays and onlays are, which is why we\’d like to go over these matters right now.

What are inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays are dental restorations that are used to rebuild tooth structure following major tooth decay or major tooth damage. Our dentists serving Shreveport and Bossier City have years of experience placing these dental restorations, which are always customized to the patient.

How are inlays and onlays different from dental fillings?

Inlays and onlays are maybe best thought of as larger versions of dental fillings. They are designed to restore larger portions of tooth structure than dental fillings, such as the biting surfaces of the teeth. Dental fillings cannot restore as much tooth structure.

How are inlays and onlays different from dental crowns?

By comparison, inlays and onlays restore less tooth structure than dental crowns. Thought of this way, they are the perfect middle option between dental fillings and dental crowns. Inlays and onlays leave more of the natural tooth structure intact when they are placed.

The Inlay and Onlay Procedure

During the inlay/onlay procedure, the dentist first preps the teeth in order for them to be treated. This means a full cleaning and then removal of tooth structure that is too compromised or damaged.

Next, the dentist takes an impression of the prepped teeth. From these impressions, the inlays and onlays will be crafted. Once the inlays and onlays have been custom-created, they are then carefully fitted and adhered to the teeth with a strong dental cement.

Other Dental Treatments to Consider

There are a few other treatment options to consider to help restore a tooth that is damaged. For predominantly aesthetic problems, dentists may recommend tooth bonding or Shreveport porcelain veneers. The former uses cosmetic bonding materials while the latter uses thin ceramic shells that are affixed to the fronts of the teeth. Both of these options are great for giving you a smile that looks great and healthy.

Weighing All of Your Options

As you can see, there are plenty of ways that your smile can be enhanced. Sometimes it\’s an aesthetic treatment like bonding or porcelain veneers that is ideal for you, though in other cases, the restorative treatments can be best for your needs. We\’ll determine how we can best meet your dental care needs during your visit.

Learn More About Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry

If you would like more information on how inlays and onlays can meet your dental health needs, be sure to contact our Bossier City cosmetic dentistry practice today. The entire team looks forward to helping you get the dental care treatment you need and educating you on many concerns related to dental health.