Most people are familiar with dental fillings or crowns. These common restorations repair cavities and end the spread of decay. But not everyone knows about the alternatives, including inlays and onlays.
Fillings effectively fix minor cavities. Crowns are placed when the decay is more severe or to cover up a large fracture. However, there are times when a dental filling is not enough, and a tooth crown is an overkill. Inlays and onlays are the next best option, something in between. More substantial than a filling, but less invasive than a crown, which requires some tooth preparation. You can get inlays and onlays near me at Sparkle Family Dentistry, along with a full menu of restorative and cosmetic dentistry solutions.
The Difference Between an Inlay and an Onlay
To clarify, inlays fill the hollows between the cusps of a decayed or damaged tooth. Like a crown, onlays not only fill cavities but also covers a larger area. But onlays do not cover the entire visible portion of a tooth. Both types of dental work are crafted of the same materials. They also serve the same function, to protect an impaired tooth. Each does so by concealing different areas on the tooth surface. Living in Carson, Redondo Beach, Palos Verdes, or Crenshaw, and you are looking for a dentist near you open on Saturday? Contact our dentist in Torrance for consultation or further guidance.
Inlays and Onlays Near You
Inlay restorations are custom-fitted and molded into the chewing surfaces of injured teeth. They are made using a mouth impression that gets sent to an outside lab. Once completed, the inlay will perfectly fit into the affected area but will not cover the cusps. Dr. Mehr will also match the natural color of the tooth when the impression is taken. At Sparkle Family Dentistry, our inlays are made of either composite or porcelain. These materials are more robust than traditional fillings. For that reason, our dentists in Torrance, CA, opt for an inlay instead of filling a weakened tooth that needs more reinforcement.
A dentist near me says that inlays are the better choice when tooth damage or decay has impacted both the biting surface and cusps. Dr. Mehr may recommend an onlay if decay or cracks are too extensive to be fixed with a silver filling. Onlays add strength and protection to both the space in between and the cusps. Sparkle Family Dentistry also offers dental fillings in Torrance, CA. Book with us to get an appointment with a qualified dentist open on Saturday near me and get your Inlays and Onlays in Torrance, CA. Get in touch with a dentist near you to learn more.
