Porcelain Inlays

The role of cosmetic dentistry is to create a more beautiful smile that also is guaranteed to function properly. Over the course of the life of your teeth, you may encounter decay, chipping or breaking that can not only make your teeth look bad, but feel bad, as well.

Porcelain inlays are a great way for patients to restore rear teeth that have suffered from decay, as well as teeth that may have cracked or fractured. Inlays can be used when a crown is not needed. Occasionally, we experience damage that is too severe to repair with a filling only, but not extensive enough to warrant a crown. Inlays are a great option for this. They fit into the cusps of the tooth and are a great option for repairing smaller damage.

Inlays work to stabilize and reinforce your natural tooth, so that even though it has damage, it will still be strong. And because they are made from tooth colored porcelain, they will fit in with your natural smile.

What is the inlay procedure?

The process to receive your inlay is quick, but requires two visits to our office. At the first visit, we will take impressions so that your inlay can be crafted. The impressions will be sent to the dental lab to create your custom inlay to your specifications. We will then place a temporary inlay until yours is ready.

At the second visit we will remove your temporary inlay and replace it with your custom created permanent one. You may experience some minor tenderness, but you can return to usual activities right away.

Inlays help you avoid more extensive treatments, such as crowns or bridges and are an excellent alternative to metal fillings. Metal fillings can expand and contract over time due to the different temperatures that enter your mouth. While miniscule, this can weaken your tooth over time. Inlays are durable and work to strengthen your affected tooth. With proper care, your inlay can last up to 30 years.

You may opt for an inlay for a variety of reasons, including:

• To repair broken or fractured teeth
• To repair decayed teeth
• To repair fractured fillings
• To repair large fillings
• To create a more cosmetically appealing smiling

Inlays are a more attractive solution to standard amalgam fillings because they are made to blend in with the teeth. And because they preserve more of the natural tooth structure, they are a more conservative option than a crown.

Whatever your reason for thinking about a porcelain inlay, our cosmetic dentists are here to help. Schedule your consultation today and begin your new smile journey.