Beverly Hills dentist, Dentist in Beverly Hills, CA

Inlays/Onlays

Inlays and onlays are sometimes referred to as partial crowns. These partial crowns are utilized when there is still a healthy enamel portion of the tooth. An inlay or onlay is a like a puzzle piece that will be fitted into the remaining portion of the tooth to help increase its strength. This piece is usually crafted out of porcelain or gold, but can also be made of a composite material. We will make the determination as to which restoration will work best in your specific situation.

An inlay is used when there is not damage to any of the cusps of your tooth and is essentially placed within these cusps. An onlay is used when there is slightly more extensive damage to the tooth structure. This type of restoration is placed over at least one of the cusps on the tooth.

Procedure

When we have decided to go ahead with an inlay or onlay, we will set aside 2-3 appointments for the entire process. Although the majority of inlays and onlays are completed in two visits, there is sometimes a need for a third visit to ensure a proper fit.

The procedure begins with the removal of all decay in the tooth. Once we have removed the decay, we will take an impression of the tooth. This impression will be sent to our lab where your new restoration will be crafted. While this new tooth is created, we will provide you with a temporary restoration. Our temporary restorations will resemble your natural teeth so that you can continue with your daily life without worrying about a missing or incompatible tooth.

During your second visit to the office, we will proceed with the placement of your final restoration. The inlay/onlay will be fitted comfortably into the mouth. We will make every effort to ensure that the new restoration feels exactly like one of your natural teeth. The final step in the process is to cement the inlay/onlay into your mouth, leaving you with a beautifully restored smile.

Instructions for Temporary Restoration

You have just had the preparation for an inlay and are wearing a temporary. The temporary has been cemented with a medicated provisional cement. Care should be taken as temporaries are made to come out easily. Brushing should be gentle but thorough and flossing should be minimized to just inserting the floss, cleaning the teeth, and then pulling the floss out through the side. Sticky, chewy food should be avoided.

You may experience some discomfort in this tooth as a result of the procedure.

It is normal to feel:

-temperature sensitivity that does not linger

-chewing and flossing sensitivity that does not last for more than a few seconds

-sensitivity at the anesthetic site for a few days

Please call us if you experience:

-temperature sensitivity that lasts for more than ten seconds

-pain that occurs on it's own, spontaneously

-the temporary touching the opposite tooth too soon

-the temporary loosening or falling off

Please return for the next scheduled appointment as prolonged interruptions or delays can jeopardize treatment success.