Inlays and Onlays

In cases of tooth decay or damage where severity exceeds the restorative capacity of fillings, our San Francisco inlays expert may recommend inlays or onlays. In contrast to fillings, which are made of malleable material that is placed in the tooth and then hardened, inlays and onlays are pre-formed from gold, porcelain or another material and cemented into the tooth by Dr. Amini. While inlays are used to repair damaged areas within the edges of the chewing surfaces of molars, onlays are used for damage that extends to the outer cusps of the chewing surfaces. A variety of advantages related to appearance, functionality, and longevity are associated with inlays and onlays.

Inlays San Francisco

The benefits of inlays and onlays are numerous and varied. These treatments from our San Francisco onlays expert enable preservation of more natural tooth structure, which is preferred for long-term fit and durability of the teeth involved. In fact, inlays and onlays can actually help strengthen teeth. Compared to tooth-colored fillings, inlays and onlays are less likely to become stained over time. Cleaning is also easier with inlays and onlays compared to full crowns, supporting oral health as a result.

Two appointments are necessary for placement of inlays and onlays. At the first appointment, our expert in inlays in San Francisco removes the damaged area and takes dental impressions for use in making the new inlay or onlay. To protect the tooth until the second appointment, a temporary inlay or onlay is placed. At the following appointment, Dr. Amini checks the permanent inlay or onlay for fit before cementing it in place, curing it, and polishing it to a smooth finish.

Onlays San Francisco

Depending on the location of the area being repaired, our expert in onlays in San Francisco may recommend one type of material or another for an inlay or onlay. For example, gold is often preferred for durability, but porcelain is normally recommended for inlays and onlays in the front of the mouth for aesthetic purposes. To learn more about inlays and onlays and their usefulness for specific issues, patients can schedule a consultation with Dr. Amini, our San Francisco cosmetic dentist.