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When you’re looking to retain your natural teeth and restore the health and beauty of your smile, your dentist may offer a variety of cosmetic dentistry options. While many patients are familiar with composite fillings and crowns, it’s common to have questions about dental inlays and onlays. Here’s some information on these cosmetic dentistry treatments, so you can determine what’s best for you. 

Inlays

A dental inlay is generally used to restore a natural tooth with a larger cavity. Smaller cavities can be fixed by removing decay and using a composite filling. When a cavity is larger, a dental inlay may be necessary to maintain the tooth’s structural integrity and reduce the risk of a filling dislodging.

Unlike a filling, an inlay is a single piece fabricated in a lab that is placed inside a tooth between the cusps. Typically composed of gold or ceramic, an inlay must be precisely molded to successfully fill a natural tooth. Once in place, an inlay will stabilize the tooth and protect it from future decay. 

Onlays

Cosmetic DentistryWhen decay goes beyond the interior and impacts chewing surfaces, a dental onlay may be required. Onlays are most commonly composed of porcelain or ceramic to mimic the appearance and color of a natural tooth.

An onlay restores the interior of a decayed tooth and generally extends beyond to a cusp or part of a chewing area. However, unlike a crown, it doesn’t cover the entire tooth and all chewing surfaces. Instead, it reinforces and helps maintain the structural integrity of the interior and cusps impacted during the cavity removal process. 

 

Are you looking for a welcoming cosmetic dentistry clinic to determine which procedure is right for you? Brian S. Kubo, DDS, is a reliable oral care partner. For over 20 years, Dr. Kubo has helped residents across the Big Island restore and enhance their smiles. To schedule an appointment, call today at (808) 885-8465. For more information on this dental practice’s offerings, visit their website

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