Precision Restorations with Inlays and Onlays in Atlanta, GA
When a tooth has more damage than a simple filling can handle, but doesn’t require a full dental crown, there’s a middle-ground solution that offers strength and aesthetics.
At Rifkin Dental Group, we provide inlays and onlays in Atlanta, GA to restore teeth with accuracy, durability, and a natural appearance.
Is Full Mouth Reconstruction Right for You?
Not every cavity or fracture should be treated the same way. The right solution depends on how much of the tooth is affected and where the damage is located. Our team evaluates each case carefully to recommend the most conservative and effective treatment.
- Common restorative options may include:
- Traditional fillings for minor decay
- Crowns for more extensive damage
- Inlays and onlays for cases that fall in between
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays are custom-crafted restorations designed to repair damage to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. These restorations are categorized as indirect fillings and are custom-fit, durable solutions used to repair moderate decay or damage when a filling is too small and a crown is too extensive. They are created outside the mouth and then bonded securely to the tooth for a precise fit.
Inlays and onlays are designed to restore the chewing surface and reinforce the structural integrity of the tooth, strengthening it instead of weakening it like some fillings do.
Inlays
Inlays are used when damage is contained within the grooves of a tooth, such as when a tooth is broken or has cavities located in the center of the tooth. They fit neatly between the cusps and restore the surface without altering the outer structure.
Onlays
Onlays are recommended for teeth with large areas of damage or decay, especially when the damage extends to one or more cusps. Dental onlays cover a larger surface area of the tooth, including the chewing surface and the cusps, and are sometimes referred to as ‘partial crowns’. They cover a larger portion of the tooth, adding strength while still preserving healthy enamel.
What to Expect During Treatment
The treatment process and procedure for inlays and onlays is efficient and designed with comfort in mind. Typically, the treatment process requires two appointments over a period of a few weeks.
Initial Visit
We begin with careful preparation of the tooth, which includes the removal of any decayed or damaged tissue. After preparation, a detailed mold or impression is taken to capture every detail of your tooth. This mold is then sent to a dental lab, where skilled technicians create your custom inlay or onlay restoration.
In the meantime, a temporary inlay (temporary restoration) is placed to protect the prepared tooth and maintain function until your final restoration is ready.
Final Placement
At your second appointment, we begin by removing the temporary restoration. Your custom inlay or onlay is then carefully cemented and bonded to your tooth using advanced bonding techniques. We make precise adjustments to ensure a perfect fit, providing comfort and restoring normal function to your bite.
This process strengthens the tooth, seamlessly integrates with your natural teeth, and helps in reducing the risk of future decay or complications. After placement, we provide follow-up care instructions to support optimal healing and long-term success of your restoration.
Why Patients Choose Inlays and Onlays
These restorations offer several advantages for patients looking for a long-term solution:
- Inlays and onlays are custom-made to match the shape and appearance of your natural teeth, ensuring beauty and an aesthetic outcome that blends seamlessly with your smile.
- Made from advanced materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold, inlays and onlays provide exceptional durability and longevity.
- These restorations are more durable and long-lasting than common fillings, and their custom fabrication reduces the risk of future complications.
- The custom-made nature of inlays and onlays ensures a precise, comfortable fit and exceptional aesthetic results that replicate natural tooth enamel.
- They preserve more of your natural tooth compared to crowns.
Book Your Consultation
If you’ve been told you may need more than a filling, inlays and onlays in Atlanta, GA could be the ideal solution. Contact Rifkin Dental Group today to book your visit and explore a treatment option that protects your smile while preserving what’s natural.