An experienced cosmetic dentist spends much of their time repairing the damage that results from tooth decay. Hundreds of patients and many years of practice afford cosmetic dentists intimate knowledge of different tooth restoration techniques, giving them the instinct and ability to choose the ideal dental restoration for every possible scenario.
Two such restorations are inlays and overlays. You might need one of them if you have extensive tooth decay that affects a sizable portion of your tooth. Read on to find out how cosmetic dentists use inlays and overlays to restore the health and aesthetics of damaged teeth.
Many people seek out cosmetic dentists because they want to correct dental problems and the imperfections they cause. Some patients have crowded, crooked or missing teeth. Many others have discoloration and breakage that happen as a result of tooth decay. For such patients, dental restorations like fillings, crowns, inlays, onlays and overlays become viable treatment options.
An inlay is an indirect filling that restores a tooth with a large cavity. Dentists fabricate or request inlays that fit perfectly into a hole caused by moderate tooth decay. An experienced cosmetic dentist will only use an inlay to fill a hole that is right in the middle of a molar.
The only way an inlay works is if there is dental tissue all around it. This means that an inlay will only cover the biting surface in the middle of the tooth, but not the cusps or edges of the tooth. Here is how cosmetic dentists install inlays:
Dental inlays only come into play if a molar has a fairly small cavity; one that does not affect the surfaces that face the tongue, the cheeks or adjacent teeth. A dentist will instead opt for an overlay if the damage to the tooth is more extensive.
Overlays correct advanced decay in the inner molar and a portion of the biting surface. An overlay not only fills a cavity, but it also covers a significant portion of the biting surface. Overlays cover one or two of the cusps that frame the edges of a molar.
Dentists install overlays with the same procedure they use to install inlays. The only difference between the two types of restorations is the extent of coverage to the surface area of the tooth.
Contact our offices to set up an appointment with our experienced cosmetic dentist. After a thorough exam, the dentist will recommend a treatment plan that works for you.
Request an appointment here: https://www.alluredentistry.com or call Allure Dentistry at (310) 683-5321 for an appointment in our Los Angeles office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Traditional dentures, or false teeth, are an effective way to replace missing teeth. While getting dentures is an exciting step, it is normal to be intimidated by the adjustment period. This article will dive into what patients can expect when getting dentures for the first time.It may take up to one month to fully adjust…
In general dentistry, dental implants replace missing teeth roots. They can be fitted with crowns, dentures, or bridges to replace missing teeth. Implants typically come in the form of a titanium screw or rod placed inside the patient’s jawbone. They fuse with bone tissues around them, becoming one with the patient’s jaw.Implants are the only…
Many patients are surprised to learn about the numerous types of dentures that are available. It is crucial to understand how to choose the right style to ensure that you get a set that looks great, fits comfortably, and enables you to function optimally.Patients should understand the different types of dentures so they can identify…
Is it time for a smile makeover? If you look in the mirror and do not like your teeth, there are things you can do to change it. Your general dentist can offer various treatments and procedures to revive your smile and give you the appearance you have always wanted. Your dentist can discuss your…
Traditional dentures, or false teeth, are an effective way to replace missing teeth. While getting dentures is an exciting step, it is normal to be intimidated by the adjustment period. This article will dive into what patients can expect when getting dentures for the first time.It may take up to one month to fully adjust…
In general dentistry, dental implants replace missing teeth roots. They can be fitted with crowns, dentures, or bridges to replace missing teeth. Implants typically come in the form of a titanium screw or rod placed inside the patient’s jawbone. They fuse with bone tissues around them, becoming one with the patient’s jaw.Implants are the only…