Inlays & Onlays
General Dentistry in Houston, TX
Suppose you have a big filling that needs replacement. Do you have to get a full crown? Not necessarily. A more conservative option, inlays and onlays fit into a tooth similar to a filling, yet they are milled restorations, much like a crown. The bumps on top of a tooth are called cusps. Inlays fit between cusps, while onlays fit over one or more cusps. Inlays and onlays allow a patient to retain more natural tooth structure, which is always best.
Not every situation is right for an inlay or onlay, but our dentists can assess your problem and determine the best solution for you. Because they are created in a lab like a crown, inlays and onlays require two appointments. At the first visit, we will prepare your tooth by removing your tooth decay or old filling and cleaning the area. We will take a dental impression and send it to our dental lab so that a technician can create a custom inlay or onlay for you. The dentist will determine the best material to use, but in most cases, teeth that show when you smile or speak can have a white restoration. You will wear a temporary until the lab delivers your final restoration.
At the second appointment, the dentist will remove your temporary and cement your final inlay or onlay into position. After polishing and modifying the restoration as necessary to ensure proper bite alignment, you will enjoy your stronger, healthier smile for years to come.
The dental care you need with experience you can trust. Meet with our team at Houston Uptown Dentists to find out how our cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry services can deliver the smile you have always wanted. Located in the heart of the Galleria/Uptown Houston district, our office is waiting to welcome you and your family. Call our Uptown Houston, TX dental office today to schedule your personal smile consultation with Dr. Brune or Dr. Juarez.
