Dental Inlays
Dental inlays are a very common treatment for those who have decay occurring on their back teeth. It was not long ago that if you had a cavity, you had to look forward to an ugly metal filling. Not anymore. Today's porcelain and dental adhesive technologies have made traditional metal fillings a thing of the past. Because of the many advantages of dental porcelain, Dr. Castaneda does not use any metal for dental inlays.
Generally speaking, an inlay is used to repair cavities that lie within the top rim or cusp of the tooth. The difference between an inlay and an onlay lies in how much of the surface of the tooth needs filled or replaced. Cavities and decay that extend beyond the crevices of the top of the tooth are treated with onlays. Onlays are a more conservative option than dental crowns for more advanced decay. However, if it is determined that your tooth decay is too significant for onlays, then a crown will be recommended.
The procedure
Both inlays and onlays are created using the same procedure. First, we will take an impression of your tooth. This impression will then be sent to the lab for manufacture. A typical inlay or onlay takes a couple weeks to make. When it is finished, you will return to our office and we will cement the inlay or onlay to your tooth and do any final touch-ups.
Porcelain provides a more natural look and greater longevity than traditional materials. Furthermore, porcelain is far less damaging to the remaining healthy tooth. Porcelain inlays and onlays require minimal natural tooth removal and not only restore decayed areas but also seal up weak spots so decay will not spread. Porcelain actually strengthens the tooth in most cases.
Many patients who have old metal fillings are choosing to have them replaced with porcelain inlays. This is highly recommended, as porcelain is much safer and aesthetically pleasing than traditional metal materials. With porcelain, you run no risk of further damage to the tooth.
If you live in the Kansas City area and have cavities that need treatment, porcelain inlays or onlays may be perfect for you. Please contact Dr. Castaneda today to arrange your appointment.
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Meet Dr. Castaneda
Rapidly becoming one of Kansas' leading sedation and cosmetic dentists, Dr. Alberto Castaneda is highly experienced, qualified and excited to share his knowledge and expertise with you. Learn More...
Community Involvement
Whitening for $88! Proceeds benefit the Shadow Buddies Foundation. Find out more about Shadow Buddies and our community involvement: Read more...
America's Top Dentist
Dr. Alberto Castaneda has been named a Top Dentist in the Consumers' Research Council of America Guide to America's Top Dentists.
He was recently nominated for Kansas Cities "Super Dentist" by Kansas City Magazine.
