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Find out more about inlays and onlays.
Inlays and Onlays in Newport Beach
When it comes to restoring damaged or decayed teeth, inlays and onlays offer a conservative yet highly effective solution. These custom-made restorations provide strength and durability while preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. At the practice of Dr. Sarah Jebreil, D.D.S. in Newport Beach, CA, we specialize in advanced dental techniques, including inlays and onlays, to restore your smile with precision and care. Whether you’re dealing with cavities or structural damage, Dr. Jebreil is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal oral health while maintaining the aesthetics of your smile.
Understanding Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are restorative dental treatments used to repair teeth that have sustained moderate damage or decay. While fillings and crowns are other common restoration options, inlays and onlays are often the preferred choice when the damage is too extensive for a traditional filling but not severe enough to require a crown. These restorations are custom-designed to fit the exact shape and size of your tooth, providing a seamless and natural-looking result.
Inlays are used when the damage is confined to the cusps (the pointed parts) of a tooth. They are placed inside the tooth, restoring the chewing surface without covering the entire tooth.
Onlays, also known as partial crowns, are used when the damage extends beyond the cusps. They cover a larger area and may include one or more cusps, providing additional strength and protection to the tooth.
Both inlays and onlays are typically made from high-quality materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin, which are chosen for their durability and natural appearance.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
At Sarah Jebreil, D.D.S., we take pride in offering our patients the most advanced and conservative dental solutions. Inlays and onlays come with several distinct advantages over traditional fillings and crowns:
Preservation of Tooth Structure
Inlays and onlays allow Dr. Jebreil to preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible. Unlike crowns, which require the removal of more tooth material, inlays and onlays only replace the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth. This conservative approach helps maintain the integrity and strength of your natural tooth.
Durability and Strength
The materials used for inlays and onlays are incredibly strong, providing a long-lasting solution to tooth damage. They are more durable than traditional fillings and can withstand the forces of chewing, making them an ideal option for molars and premolars that experience the most pressure during eating.
Seamless, Natural Appearance
Dr. Jebreil customizes each inlay and onlay to match the color, shape, and size of your natural tooth. The result is a restoration that blends in seamlessly with your existing teeth, providing an aesthetically pleasing outcome. Porcelain and ceramic inlays and onlays are especially popular for their ability to mimic the translucency of natural teeth.
Better Fit and Protection
Because inlays and onlays are custom-made from detailed impressions of your teeth, they offer a superior fit compared to traditional fillings. This precise fit ensures that the restoration stays securely in place and helps prevent future damage or decay. Onlays, in particular, provide extra protection by covering and reinforcing weakened cusps.
Resistance to Staining
Materials like porcelain and ceramic are resistant to staining, making them an excellent option for patients who want to maintain a bright, white smile. Unlike metal or amalgam fillings, inlays and onlays won’t discolor over time, helping you preserve the appearance of your teeth.
The Inlay and Onlay Procedure at Sarah Jebreil, D.D.S.
If you’re considering inlays or onlays as a restorative option, here’s what you can expect from the process at Dr. Sarah Jebreil’s office:
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Examination
During your first appointment, Dr. Jebreil will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums to assess the extent of the damage or decay. This may involve X-rays or other diagnostic tools to determine whether inlays or onlays are the best option for your restoration. If your tooth is too damaged for a filling but doesn’t require a full crown, Dr. Jebreil will recommend an inlay or onlay as a conservative solution.
Step 2: Preparation of the Tooth
Once the treatment plan is confirmed, Dr. Jebreil will prepare the affected tooth by removing the decayed or damaged portions. The tooth will then be cleaned and shaped to accommodate the inlay or onlay. An impression of your tooth is taken to ensure that the restoration will fit perfectly.
Step 3: Temporary Restoration (If Needed)
In some cases, a temporary filling may be placed over the prepared tooth to protect it while your custom inlay or onlay is being fabricated in a dental lab. This temporary restoration will help you maintain function and comfort until your final inlay or onlay is ready.
Step 4: Custom Fabrication
The impressions taken during your appointment will be sent to a specialized dental lab, where your inlay or onlay will be custom-made to fit your tooth precisely. This process typically takes about 1-2 weeks. The restoration is crafted from high-quality materials that are chosen to match your natural tooth color and provide optimal strength.
Step 5: Final Placement
Once your inlay or onlay is ready, you will return to our Newport Beach office for the final fitting. Dr. Jebreil will carefully place the restoration, making sure it fits securely and comfortably. The inlay or onlay will be bonded to your tooth using a strong dental adhesive, ensuring that it stays in place and functions like your natural tooth. Any final adjustments will be made to ensure a perfect bite.
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Inlays and Onlays Newport Beach Sarah Jebreil D.D.S. 19742 MacArthur Ste 115, Irvine, CA 92612
