Inlays/Onlays in Silver Spring, MD

Nowadays, there are more options to treat moderate tooth decay than just traditional dental fillings. At De Lucs Dental, LLC, we offer our patients’ inlays and onlays two dental restorations that help reinstate the look and function of an affected tooth.

Dental Inlays

An inlay can be used to treat mild tooth decay on the surface of the teeth. They can treat tooth conditions that are too advanced for a dental filling but not enough for a dental crown. The primary aim is to retain as much of the natural tooth as possible. Inlays can be custom-made to match your existing teeth for a natural appearance.

Dental Onlays

Onlays are also referred to as partial crowns. They can treat damage in the cusps of the tooth. Onlays are considered a cost-effective alternative to a dental crown. Again, your options will depend on the severity of your tooth condition.

Candidates for Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays provide a renewed chewing surface for a damaged tooth and are appropriate for use when:

• A cusp of the tooth is broken or cracked.
• A large cavity that spreads across the surface of the tooth 
• Old fillings have chipped or fallen out 
• There is decay under the old filling

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays fuse into a tooth like a filling, yet they are customized restorations, similar to a crown. The peaks on a tooth surface are called cusps. Inlays can be secured between cusps, while onlays fit over one or more cusps. Inlays and onlays allow:

• More natural tooth structure is retained
• A customized option than a filling
• No need for a crown
• More economical option than a crown

Process for Inlays & Onlays

Dr. Gary Lucombe will assess your problem and determine your suitability for onlays and inlays. As they are created in a lab, inlays and onlays require two appointments. We will prepare your tooth at the first visit by meticulously cleaning out your tooth decay. We will then take a dental impression and send it to our lab to create a customized restoration. Tooth-colored materials will be chosen to match the tooth structure.

In the meanwhile, you can wear a temporary covering until your final restoration is ready. At the second appointment, the permanent restoration is cemented into position. The restorations are altered and polished to ensure proper bite alignment. 

If you would like to see if you are a good candidate for inlays or onlays, visit our office, De Lucs Dental, LLC, at 8630 Fenton Street, Suite 204, Silver Spring, MD 20910. You can also reach Dentist in Silver Spring, MD at 301-587-8081 | 301-587-8082.