If Dr. Apsey needs to restore one of your teeth and over 1/2 of the tooth's biting surface is damaged or missing, he will often recommend a porcelain inlay or onlay. When more than ½ of the biting surface is gone, traditional fillings will not be strong enough and are not recommended as your tooth will be susceptible to further breakdown from fracture. Inlays and onlays, are bonded directly to the tooth using high-strength resins, which actually increase the strength of your tooth. They are long lasting and are more conservative. This treatment option is more conservative than traditional crowns as it can preserve more of your tooth structure.

What are inlays and onlays?

Inlays or onlays are made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. They are bonded to the tooth. An inlay, is similar to a filling and is placed inside the tooth; an onlay is larger and restores more of the tooth's structure. It is similar to an inlay but extends over one or more of the cusps (points) of the tooth.

Though for many years, gold has been considered the best choice as it is conservative (does not require a lot of tooth reduction) people are choosing the more esthetic porcelain inlay or onlay as it is just as strong, looks nicer, and lasts as long as gold.

 

Dear Dr. Apsey, Just a little note about my visits at your office. It was a most wonderful experience of my life. I had not been to a dentist in 30 years, and I was very apprehensive. You and all of the girls in the office made me feel comfortable, relaxed, and helped me to complete my treatment. Thanks for everything,

V. Nowicki