Most patients who work with Dr. Rajpal have previously had a cavity due to poor flossing or brushing habits that lead to plaque and bacteria accumulation in the teeth. Composite fillings are the most common way to treat these cavities, but they’re not always enough to keep the tooth structurally intact. When composite fillings aren’t enough, porcelain inlays may be necessary for tooth restoration. If you notice the signs or symptoms of cavities, please contact Dr. Rajpal today.
What are Porcelain Inlays?
A porcelain inlay is a custom-made filling of porcelain, generally used to cover up large cavities and fractures on teeth. If you have a large defective filling or a severely decayed tooth, Dr. Rajpal will design custom porcelain inlays in a dental laboratory, which will then be cemented into the tooth. While porcelain crowns involve a full replacement of the external tooth, porcelain inlays involve only a partial replacement. Porcelain inlays enhance the durability and strength of the affected tooth.
Porcelain inlays preserve more of the patient’s natural tooth and look more natural. Additionally, inlays last much longer than normal fillings and provide a more realistic shape and surface to the damaged tooth. If you have a cavity that’s too large for a composite filling but not large enough for a dental crown, your dentist may recommend a porcelain inlay. The dentist will carefully examine your teeth, take impressions, and ensure you’re a suitable candidate before proceeding.
You May Need Porcelain Inlays To:
- Fix broken or fractured teeth
- Enhance the cosmetic appearance of your teeth
- Restore decayed or damaged teeth
- Replace fractured fillings
- Replace large fillings
- Enhance the structural integrity of the tooth
- Strengthen your tooth
Porcelain Inlays vs. Porcelain Onlays
If a filling isn’t enough for your cavity and a dental crown is too much, your dentist may recommend porcelain inlays or onlays. Both inlays and onlays are types of cosmetic dental restorative procedures used to remedy low to moderate levels of cavities and dental decay. But depending on the severity and location of the dental decay, the dentist may recommend inlays or onlays to protect your teeth. But what is the difference between porcelain inlays and onlays?
The difference lies in the location of the filling material. Porcelain inlays are fitted into the tooth’s cavity, while porcelain onlays cover the entire outer edges of the decayed teeth to strengthen their structure. Porcelain inlays usually fill the areas between the cusps, whereas porcelain onlays cover the cusps. Both porcelain inlays and porcelain onlays protect damaged and decayed teeth, but on a spectrum of dental restoration, onlays are closer to dental crowns, and inlays are closer to fillings.
Porcelain Inlays vs. Porcelain Crowns
Composite fillings are the standard treatment for cavities and minor dental damages. But some cavities and fractures are too large for fillings, and that’s when porcelain inlays or porcelain crowns might be necessary. Porcelain inlays repair damages on the cusp of the affected teeth, whereas crowns replace the entire external structure of the damaged teeth. As such, porcelain inlays are more conservative than porcelain crowns. Dr. Rajpal will determine if you need porcelain inlays or porcelain crowns after a thorough evaluation.
The Porcelain Inlays Procedure
While porcelain inlays function like standard composite fillings, the procedure for implementing them is quite different. Porcelain inlays are custom-built to the patient’s mouth in a laboratory. Dr. Rajpal will first take impressions of the teeth that need inlays and fit them during a second visit. Porcelain inlays are cemented into your mouth and replace only the necessary portions of the tooth. There are no harsh side effects, complications, or downtime. The procedure usually concludes within an hour.
Maintenance of Porcelain Inlays
Porcelain inlays are quite easy to take care of — normal brushing and flossing are sufficient to maintain their structural integrity. Dental porcelain is an even stronger material than natural teeth and will provide longer-lasting functionality to the patient. However, you must visit the dentist for regular cleanings to address potential dental problems at the earliest stage. Dr. Rajpal specializes in various cosmetic procedures that involve using dental porcelain and can help you restore a brilliant smile.
Schedule a Consultation
Beverly Hills Dental Arts is a luxurious dental practice specializing in smile makeovers and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Rajpal is a world-renowned cosmetic dentist with specialized training in porcelain dental treatments, such as porcelain crowns, porcelain veneers, and porcelain inlays. If you have the signs and symptoms of cavities, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Rajpal to see if porcelain inlays are right for you. Call (310) 273-1199 to visit with Dr. Rajpal today — we look forward to seeing you in our office!
465 N. Roxbury Dr, Suite 701
Beverly Hills CA 90210
(310) 273-1199