You’re probably familiar with dental fillings, which are used to restore a tooth after decay has occurred. But that’s not the only solution for patients with cavities. Outside of the traditional dental fillings, patients may also be told by their dentist that they can restore their smile with inlays and onlays. Inlays and onlays are commonly used at Clear Lake Dental Care and Implant Center of Webster, TX to provide patients with a more conservative option for addressing areas of decay.
What Is A Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a restoration used to repair decayed or damaged teeth. It is often made of a tooth-colored material such as composite resin bonding, and effectively fills the hole left in a tooth from a cavity. The decayed portions of the tooth are removed, and the filling material is placed to fill the space left behind. In some cases, especially situations where a substantial amount of tooth structure is removed, a dental crown might be placed on top of the tooth as well.
What Is An Inlay Or Onlay?
The dentists at Clear Lake Dental Care and Implant Center describe inlays and onlays as porcelain restoration that fit within the tooth structure, almost like placing the last piece into a puzzle. They can be placed in or on the tooth, often repairing the chewing surface and restoring structure in areas where a filling may not be enough. Inlays and onlays will often eliminate the need for placing a dental crown over a tooth, offering a more conservative alternative.
Why Choose Inlays And Onlays Over Traditional Fillings?
There are several reasons why patients might opt for inlays or onlays over dental fillings. Inlays and onlays:
- Protect the tooth while rejuvenating the smile
- Provides a durable option that is stain-resistant
- Offers a solution that blends in with the smile
- Provides strengthening of a tooth more than a dental filling alone
- Prevents inflammation, infection, and further damage
- Do not expand and contract which reduces risk of infection
Call Clear Lake Dental Care And Implant Center Today
If you are considering restorative services, we welcome you to call our office to work with our dentists, including Drs. Piyuse Das, An Pham, and Grisel Acevedo Rivera. The practice is located at 202 West Medical Center Boulevard in Webster, TX and accepts new and existing patients who call (832) 479-4676 for an appointment.
