Porcelain Dental Inlays/Onlays

Chesterfield and St. Louis, Missouri

If you have a cavity that needs to be filled, we have several highly effective restoration options for you. Chesterfield cosmetic dentist Dr. Robert Goldman or Dr. Jeffrey Yenzer may recommend porcelain inlays or onlays, both types of porcelain fillings, to build-up the tooth once the decayed portion is removed. Both of these restorations are designed to help restore your decayed tooth to its original strength and functionality while preserving its natural appearance.

The Goal of Porcelain Fillings

A dental inlay is used to fill small spaces left by decay or damage, while a dental onlay is a bit larger and covers some or all chewing surfaces of the tooth. The goal with these treatments is to preserve the structure and integrity of your tooth. Another benefit of porcelain onlays and inlays is that they often help prevent decay in areas that are especially vulnerable.

Benefits of Porcelain Inlays and Onlays

Porcelain inlays and onlays preserve more of your natural tooth structure than other restorations such as metal amalgam fillings or dental crowns. Depending on your unique oral health issues, we will either recommend a porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal inlay or onlay. Both options are highly durable and will restore your tooth back to its original strength without the invasiveness of a crown procedure.

Porcelain onlays and inlays can last upwards of 30 years if they are performed carefully and cared for properly.

Your porcelain inlays and onlays will provide the following additional benefits:

  • Eliminates tooth sensitivity and eventual tooth loss
  • Closely resemble the appearance of your natural tooth
  • Unlike metal amalgam fillings, they do not expand or contract due to temperature changes, an action which weakens your teeth and may lead to fracture
  • Save decayed teeth, preventing the need for more extensive dental treatment in the future

These restorations have a higher cost due to the number and length of visits required and the expense of having your restoration created in a dental lab. However, the high quality results you will receive from this treatment make the procedure well worth the investment.

To schedule your initial consultation, please contact our Chesterfield cosmetic dentists today, serving St. Louis and Chesterfield, Missouri. All new patients can take advantage of our free tooth beaching service, worth $400-500.

Porcelain Inlays

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