Thanks to advances in restorative dentistry, gone are the days of a mouth full of unsightly metallic fillings. Many people are now great candidates for these newer, more attractive filling options. Eggleston Dental Care offers the latest in cosmetic dentistry in Turlock, including inlays and onlays – a more natural looking alternative to traditional metal fillings.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are restorative treatments custom-made to fit into the crevices (cusps) formed by the removal of damaged or decayed tooth material. Also called indirect fillings, these treatments are made of medical grade porcelain which is typically colored to match your existing tooth matter.

Inlays fit just into the cusps of the tooth, while onlays fill the cusps as well as cover the entire remaining tooth surface. Both are constructed of high quality porcelain molded specifically to fit your teeth.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Virtually anyone for whom traditional fillings would be appropriate could have inlays or onlays applied. There must be adequate natural tooth material in order to support the porcelain, and this tooth matter must be fairly strong. In addition, it’s important to adhere to a proper oral health routine, and to avoid exposing the filled teeth to foods which are excessively crunchy or chewy as much as possible. This treatment option is often used when old fillings need to be removed and replaced.

In the event that there is too much decay damage, or the tooth is not structurally sound enough, crowns can be a better restorative dentistry choice. Eggleston Dental Care cosmetic dentists in Turlock can provide crown services as well.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

One of the main advantages of this type of filling is that the material used is extremely durable – the treatments can last up to 30 years. Not only are porcelain fillings long-lasting, they actually strengthen the teeth and lengthen their lives, reducing or eliminating the need for future treatments.

How Is It Done?

Whether the treatment is an initial filling or replacement of an old one, we will take an impression of the tooth in order to create the custom-fitted material. This ensures that your restorative dental treatment fits perfectly into your damaged tooth.