Inlays and Onlays in Sherman Oaks

In Sherman Oaks, your smile says a lot about you. At Clove Dental, we specialize in helping patients maintain healthy, beautiful smiles with advanced restorative options like inlays and onlays. These custom-crafted restorations are ideal for repairing moderately damaged teeth while preserving their natural structure and appearance. Whether you need to repair a cavity, strengthen a cracked tooth, or replace an old filling, inlays and onlays provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution tailored to your needs.

What are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are dental restorations designed to repair teeth affected by decay, damage, or wear. They are an excellent alternative to traditional fillings or crowns for moderate dental issues.

  • Inlays: These restorations are used to fill cavities and repair damage confined to the grooves between the cusps of a tooth.
  • Onlays: Onlays provide coverage for one or more cusps, offering enhanced strength for teeth with more extensive damage.

Made from high-quality materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold, inlays and onlays are custom-designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The Procedure for Inlays and Onlays

At Clove Dental in Sherman Oaks, we make the inlay and onlay procedure as smooth and efficient as possible. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Consultation and Tooth Preparation: During your initial visit, our dentist will assess your tooth and determine if an inlay or onlay is the best solution. We’ll remove any decay or damaged areas and take an impression of your tooth to create your custom restoration. A temporary filling may be placed to protect your tooth in the meantime.
  • Placement and Final Adjustments: At your second visit, your custom inlay or onlay will be ready. We’ll carefully bond the restoration to your tooth using advanced adhesives and ensure it fits perfectly. The surface will be polished to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth, leaving you with a restored and natural-looking smile.

At Clove Dental in Sherman Oaks, our custom-designed dentures are tailored to meet your specific needs, providing a secure fit and a natural look.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are a preferred choice for patients seeking a durable, natural-looking restoration. Here’s why they’re so effective:

Preservation of Natural Tooth Structure

Unlike crowns, inlays and onlays require minimal removal of healthy tooth material, making them a conservative treatment option.

Seamless Appearance
Porcelain or composite resin inlays and onlays are custom-matched to your tooth color, ensuring a natural, flawless look.
Long-Lasting Durability
These restorations are designed to withstand everyday wear and tear, often lasting for decades with proper care.
Custom Fit
Each inlay or onlay is precisely crafted to fit your tooth’s shape and size, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
Enhanced Strength and Protection
Inlays and onlays strengthen the damaged tooth and help prevent future decay or fractures.
Stain Resistance
Porcelain inlays and onlays resist staining, maintaining their appearance and keeping your smile radiant.

Signs You Might Need Inlays or Onlays

Not sure if inlays or onlays are the right solution for your dental needs? Here are some common signs that this treatment may be ideal for you:

  • Large Cavities: When a filling isn’t sufficient to repair a cavity, an inlay or onlay can provide additional strength and coverage.
  • Cracks or Chips: Teeth with minor fractures or chips can be effectively restored with an onlay to prevent further damage.
  • Worn-Out Fillings: If a filling has cracked or deteriorated over time, replacing it with an inlay or onlay offers better durability and support.
  • Tooth Wear or Erosion: Teeth affected by grinding or acid erosion can be rebuilt with these custom restorations.
  • Pain or Sensitivity: Discomfort when biting or chewing may indicate a compromised tooth that an inlay or onlay can reinforce.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation at Clove Dental in Sherman Oaks to explore your options.

FAQs About Inlays and Onlays

What’s the difference between an inlay and a crown?

Inlays are a more conservative option that preserves more of your natural tooth, while crowns cover the entire tooth. Inlays are ideal for moderate damage.

How long do inlays and onlays last?

With good oral hygiene, inlays and onlays can last 10 to 30 years, making them a durable and cost-effective solution.

Will my inlay or onlay look natural?
Absolutely! We use materials that match your tooth color, ensuring the restoration blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Is the procedure painful?

The procedure is minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.

Are inlays and onlays covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans cover inlays and onlays as part of restorative dental care. Our team can help you understand your coverage and maximize your benefits.

What care is required after the procedure?

Maintain your inlays or onlays by brushing and flossing daily and visiting our office regularly for cleanings and exams.

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