Ceramic Inlays/Onlays Doylestown PA

When over 1/2 of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged a dentist will often use an inlay or onlay.

What are Inlays & Onlays?

In recent years, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its esthetics and wear resistance. Porcelain shade selection can match the natural color of your teeth.

How are they applied?
Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure. During the first visit, the filling being replaced or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. To ensure proper fit and bite, an impression of the tooth taken, and sent to a lab for fabrication. Dr. Keiper will then apply a temporary on the tooth and schedule the next appointment.

At the second appointment, the temporary is removed. Dr. Keiper will then make sure that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. The inlay or onlay will then be bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.

Considerations

Traditional fillings can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50%. As an alternative, inlays and onlays, being bonded directly onto the tooth using special high-strength resins, can actually increase the strength of a tooth by up to 75%. As a result, they can last from 10 to 30 years. In some cases, where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to merit an entire crown, ceramic onlays can provide a very good alternative.