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Porcelain Inlays and Onlays

Porcelain inlays and onlays are an excellent option for restoring teeth that have been damaged beyond what a regular filling can handle but still have enough strength to avoid the need for a full crown. These restorations are considered indirect because they are made outside of your mouth in a dental lab as a single piece and then cemented onto the tooth. This method allows for a more precise and durable solution compared to traditional fillings.

So, what’s the difference between inlays and onlays? The key distinction lies in how much of the tooth is covered:

  • Inlays are typically used to restore the chewing surface of the tooth, particularly in the area between the cusps (the pointed edges) of the tooth. This is ideal for teeth that are damaged in the middle of the surface but not extensively.
  • Onlays, on the other hand, are used when more extensive coverage is needed. They can cover one or more of the cusps on the tooth, providing a more robust restoration when larger areas of the tooth are compromised.

Both porcelain inlays and onlays offer a strong, functional restoration while preserving the natural structure of the tooth. Unlike crowns, which require the tooth to be significantly reshaped, inlays and onlays require less preparation, meaning more of your original tooth structure is preserved. This makes them a minimally invasive choice for those looking for a durable solution without losing too much of their natural tooth.

One of the biggest advantages of porcelain inlays and onlays is their ability to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. The porcelain material is customized to match the colour, texture, and shape of your teeth, making these restorations virtually indistinguishable from your natural enamel. Not only do they restore the functionality of your teeth, but they also provide a natural, aesthetically pleasing result.

Porcelain inlays and onlays are incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring they’ll last for years with proper care. Additionally, they help protect and strengthen the tooth, preventing further damage and providing a more stable chewing surface.

If you’re interested in learning more about porcelain inlays and onlays, or if you think this could be the solution for your dental needs, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to answer all your questions and help you decide if this is the right treatment for you!

What are the signs of misaligned teeth?

If you’re experiencing cold sensitivity, jaw or muscle pain or headaches, teeth chipping or wearing, difficulty flossing, bad breath, dry mouth or receding gums, you could have abnormal tooth alignment. If you are presenting any of these conditions, we can help get your teeth out of trauma and we can help treat the problem and the symptoms related to these conditions:

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