Most patients today prefer tooth-colored restorations over the more traditional silver or amalgam fillings for their cavities. There are two main choices available for tooth-colored restorations – tooth-colored fillings and porcelain inlays/onlays. The type of restoration you need and your personal preferences will determine which option we will recommend for you.
Tooth-colored composite fillings are made out of a combination of resin, glass, and other materials. They provide you with a safe and durable restoration that closely resembles the make-up of your natural teeth. The resin is inserted into your tooth in layers to fill the cavity. A curing light is used to harden the material and bond it to your tooth. The bonding process strengthens your tooth and protects it from bacteria. The entire process will be completed in one visit to our office.
Porcelain inlays/onlays are frequently used in cases where the cavity is larger or where tooth decay has affected more than one surface of the tooth. First, an impression is taken of your tooth. Your impression is then sent to a dental lab where a master ceramist creates your inlay or onlay to custom fit into your areas of decay. A temporary is used while the porcelain restoration is created. On your second visit, the inlay/ onlay will be bonded to your tooth. Porcelain inlays are generally used to treat decay within the cusps of your tooth. Onlays cover the entire chewing surface of your tooth and are used to treat decay that extends over a larger area. Some benefits of inlays/onlays:
- The porcelain insert is much harder than composite materials and can more effectively strengthen the tooth.
- Porcelain restorations generally last longer than tooth-colored composite fillings and can repair much more complex cases of tooth decay.
- Porcelain restorations require much less preparation or removal of healthy tooth structure.
- Typically, inlays/onlays are considered indirect fillings, since they must be created in a dental lab, and the entire process takes two visits. However, Dr. Castaneda also uses the latest Cerec technology, which can create your inlays and onlays in just one visit.
If you have questions or would like us to take a closer look at what is best for you, please give us a call or email us.
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