An experienced cosmetic dentist spends much of their time repairing the damage that results from tooth decay. Hundreds of patients and many years of practice afford cosmetic dentists intimate knowledge of different tooth restoration techniques, giving them the instinct and ability to choose the ideal dental restoration for every possible scenario.
Two such restorations are inlays and overlays. You might need one of them if you have extensive tooth decay that affects a sizable portion of your tooth. Read on to find out how cosmetic dentists use inlays and overlays to restore the health and aesthetics of damaged teeth.
Many people seek out cosmetic dentists because they want to correct dental problems and the imperfections they cause. Some patients have crowded, crooked or missing teeth. Many others have discoloration and breakage that happen as a result of tooth decay. For such patients, dental restorations like fillings, crowns, inlays, onlays and overlays become viable treatment options.
An inlay is an indirect filling that restores a tooth with a large cavity. Dentists fabricate or request inlays that fit perfectly into a hole caused by moderate tooth decay. An experienced cosmetic dentist will only use an inlay to fill a hole that is right in the middle of a molar.
The only way an inlay works is if there is dental tissue all around it. This means that an inlay will only cover the biting surface in the middle of the tooth, but not the cusps or edges of the tooth. Here is how cosmetic dentists install inlays:
Dental inlays only come into play if a molar has a fairly small cavity; one that does not affect the surfaces that face the tongue, the cheeks or adjacent teeth. A dentist will instead opt for an overlay if the damage to the tooth is more extensive.
Overlays correct advanced decay in the inner molar and a portion of the biting surface. An overlay not only fills a cavity, but it also covers a significant portion of the biting surface. Overlays cover one or two of the cusps that frame the edges of a molar.
Dentists install overlays with the same procedure they use to install inlays. The only difference between the two types of restorations is the extent of coverage to the surface area of the tooth.
Contact our offices to set up an appointment with our experienced cosmetic dentist. After a thorough exam, the dentist will recommend a treatment plan that works for you.
Request an appointment here: https://apprehensivedentalcare.com or call Apprehensive Dental Care at (718) 210-9747 for an appointment in our Jackson Heights office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
General dentistry happens to include restoring teeth that are in bad shape or completely missing. Of course, a restoration is meant to bring the tooth back to its original shape, form, and function. However, in some cases, this is not all the way possible, making it necessary to undergo something like a dental bridge placement.…
Getting dental implants is an important choice in your goals for good oral health. This treatment is also a great way to restore your smile and feel good about your appearance again. If you compare implants to other tooth-replacement options, you will see the differences and benefits that implants offer. The process of getting implants…
Understanding the pros and cons of Invisalign® and veneers is an important first step to deciding which treatment option is right for you. Many are familiar with Invisalign for a straighter smile, but fewer have heard of veneers for orthodontic treatment. This review offers insights into Invisalign and veneers as it relates to correcting teeth…
A restorative dentist can bring back your smile and dental function. You should consult this dentist first before your treatments begin. That way, you will know what the procedures will entail. Here are some of the things to expect during your consultation with your dentist.Some restorative dental treatments are invasive. This may cause anxiety in…
General dentistry happens to include restoring teeth that are in bad shape or completely missing. Of course, a restoration is meant to bring the tooth back to its original shape, form, and function. However, in some cases, this is not all the way possible, making it necessary to undergo something like a dental bridge placement.…
Getting dental implants is an important choice in your goals for good oral health. This treatment is also a great way to restore your smile and feel good about your appearance again. If you compare implants to other tooth-replacement options, you will see the differences and benefits that implants offer. The process of getting implants…