If you have cracked, decayed, or worn teeth, porcelain inlays and onlays might be the perfect solution. At Charleston Dental Studio, Dr. Julie Driscoll uses these custom restorations to repair damage, restore strength, and enhance the appearance of your smile. Trust Dr. Driscoll’s expertise to address cavities, chipped enamel, or weakened teeth with precision and artistry.
Repair Damaged and Decayed Teeth
Porcelain inlays and onlays are custom-crafted dental restorations that repair damaged or decayed teeth while preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. Inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth, while onlays extend over the cusps to restore larger areas of damage. Made from durable, tooth-colored porcelain, they blend seamlessly with your smile and provide lasting strength. Dr. Driscoll uses these restorations to restore function and beauty, offering a minimally invasive solution to keep your smile healthy and radiant.
Reasons to Consider Porcelain Inlays & Onlays:
- You want a durable solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth
- You need to repair a cavity too large for a traditional filling
- You want a restoration that blends seamlessly with your smile
- You’re looking for a long-lasting alternative to metal fillings or crowns
- You need to strengthen a weakened tooth without compromising aesthetics
- You want to prevent further damage to a cracked or worn tooth
Porcelain Inlays vs. Porcelain Onlays
Porcelain Inlays
Porcelain inlays are restorative treatments used to repair damage or decay within the grooves and crevices of a tooth without covering its outer cusps. Inlays are bonded into place using advanced dental adhesives, creating a strong, seamless restoration. They are ideal for treating small to moderate areas of decay or damage.
Porcelain Onlays
Porcelain onlays extend beyond the grooves of the tooth to cover one or more of its cusps. This makes them an effective option for larger areas of damage or decay that require reinforcement of the tooth’s structure. Onlays are custom-crafted to fit perfectly over the affected area, providing additional support to prevent fractures or further damage.
Benefits of Porcelain Inlays & Onlays:
- Restoring damaged teeth with durable, natural-looking porcelain
- Preserving more natural tooth structure compared to crowns
- Strengthening teeth and preventing further damage or decay
- Providing a long-lasting solution resistant to wear and staining
- Supporting better oral hygiene by precisely fitting and sealing the treated area
- Customized alternative to traditional fillings or crowns
Your Porcelain Inlays & Onlays Experience
Your treatment for porcelain inlays or onlays typically takes two visits. First, Dr. Driscoll will prepare your tooth by removing damaged or decayed areas and taking digital impressions. These impressions ensure a perfect fit for your custom restoration. A temporary inlay or onlay protects your tooth while your porcelain piece is crafted in a dental lab. During your second visit, Dr. Driscoll will bond the inlay or onlay to your tooth using adhesives.
Porcelain Inlays & Onlays FAQs
What Is the Difference Between a Porcelain Inlay and a Filling?
A porcelain inlay is a custom-made restoration designed to fit perfectly into the grooves of your tooth, providing superior strength and durability compared to traditional fillings. While fillings are applied directly into the tooth and hardened in place, inlays are crafted outside the mouth and then bonded to the tooth, offering a precise fit and longer-lasting results.
How Do I Care for Porcelain Inlays and Onlays?
Caring for porcelain inlays and onlays is simple—maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting our office for regular cleanings and exams. To prevent damage, avoid biting on hard objects and wear nightguards if you suffer from bruxism.
How Long Do Porcelain Inlays and Onlays Last?
With proper care, porcelain inlays and onlays can last 10-15 years or more. Their longevity depends on oral hygiene habits, dietary choices, and regular dental checkups.
Are Porcelain Inlays and Onlays Better Than Crowns?
Porcelain inlays and onlays are less invasive than crowns, as they preserve more of your natural tooth structure. They are ideal for moderate damage or decay that doesn’t require full coverage. However, for extensive damage, a crown might be more suitable. Dr. Driscoll will assess your tooth’s condition to recommend the best option for your needs.
Do Porcelain Inlays and Onlays Look Natural?
Yes, porcelain inlays and onlays are crafted to match the color, shape, and texture of your natural teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable. They blend seamlessly with your smile while restoring strength and function.
Meet Dr. Julie Driscoll Today
Dr. Julie Driscoll is a highly skilled dentist with advanced training in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, including porcelain inlays and onlays. Known for her artistry and attention to detail, she is dedicated to providing personalized care that restores the function and beauty of your smile. At Charleston Dental Studio, she takes the time to understand your needs and create solutions tailored to your needs. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Driscoll today to explore how porcelain inlays and onlays can transform your oral health.