GENERAL DENTISTRY

Inlays and Onlays in Vancouver

Restore Your Smile at Arbutus North Dental

At Arbutus North Dental, we specialize in providing high-quality inlays and onlays in Vancouver to restore damaged teeth, fix cavities, and enhance the appearance of your smile. Our expert team uses advanced materials and cutting-edge techniques to deliver durable, aesthetically pleasing results that not only improve the look of your teeth but also restore their full function. Whether you’re dealing with a cavity or tooth damage, our inlays and onlays are custom-designed to fit seamlessly with your natural teeth for long-lasting, beautiful results.

What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or injury but do not require a full dental crown. They are designed to fit into or cover the cavities of your natural tooth, restoring its structure and strength.

Inlays: A dental inlay is a filling that fits inside a cavity, typically used for small to medium-sized cavities in the back teeth.
Onlays: A dental onlay, sometimes called a “partial crown,” covers a larger area of the tooth, including one or more cusps, offering more support for a tooth that may be too damaged for an inlay.

Both inlays and onlays are made from materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold, each chosen based on your needs and aesthetic preferences. These restorations blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a durable, natural-looking solution.

Benefits of Dental Inlays and Onlays

Choosing inlays or onlays offers many benefits for restoring your tooth and smile:

Aesthetic Appeal: Both inlays and onlays are designed to match the color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and attractive result.
Durability: Made from strong materials like porcelain and gold, these restorations are durable and long-lasting, making them a great choice for back teeth that endure heavy chewing.
Preservation of Tooth Structure: Unlike crowns, inlays and onlays require less removal of your natural tooth, preserving more of your healthy tooth structure.
Strength and Functionality: These restorations are designed to restore the strength and functionality of your tooth, ensuring you can chew and speak comfortably again.

What to Expect During Your Inlays/Onlays Procedure

At Arbutus North Dental, we make sure that the process of getting inlays and onlays is smooth, comfortable, and efficient. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the procedure:

1. Consultation and Diagnosis

The first step in the process is a comprehensive consultation with one of our expert dentists. We’ll examine your teeth, take X-rays, and determine if inlays or onlays are the best solution for your needs. If necessary, we may also discuss other restoration options, such as dental crowns.

2. Tooth Preparation

Once we’ve confirmed that an inlay or onlay is the right option, we’ll prepare your tooth by removing any decayed or damaged areas. For onlays, more of the tooth’s surface will be removed to ensure the restoration fits properly. We aim to remove as little of the natural tooth structure as possible.

3. Impressions and Custom Design

After preparing your tooth, we’ll take digital impressions to create a custom inlay or onlay that fits perfectly. Using advanced CAD/CAM technology, your restoration will be designed for a precise and comfortable fit.

4. Temporary Restoration

While your custom inlay or onlay is being fabricated, we’ll place a temporary restoration to protect the tooth and ensure you can continue your daily activities without discomfort.

5. Final Placement

Once your inlay or onlay is ready, we’ll have you return to Arbutus North Dental for the final placement. We’ll check the fit and make any necessary adjustments before permanently bonding the restoration to your tooth. The result will be a durable and aesthetically pleasing tooth restoration that blends seamlessly with your smile.

Inlays vs. Onlays: Which Is Right for You?

Both inlays and onlays are excellent options for repairing teeth, but the choice depends on the extent of the damage:

Inlays are ideal for smaller cavities that are confined to the middle of the tooth and do not extend to the cusps.
Onlays are best suited for larger cavities or teeth with significant damage, where additional support is needed.

During your consultation, our oral health professionals will assess your specific needs and recommend the best option for you.

Why Choose Us for Inlays and Onlays in Vancouver?

At Arbutus North Dental, we are dedicated to providing the highest level of care, ensuring you receive the best possible results with inlays and onlays. Here’s why our patients trust us with their dental restoration needs:

Experienced Dentists: Our skilled dental team has years of experience in providing inlays and onlays that look natural and last for many years.
Customized Treatment: We take the time to evaluate your specific needs and offer a personalized treatment plan that best suits your smile.
Advanced Technology: We use the latest dental technology, including CAD/CAM systems, to create precise and durable inlays and onlays that fit perfectly.
Comfort and Care: We ensure that every step of the procedure is as comfortable as possible, using gentle techniques and offering sedation options if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between inlays and onlays?

Inlays fill cavities in the center of a tooth, while onlays cover a larger portion, including one or more cusps of the tooth.

How long do inlays and onlays last?

With proper care, inlays and onlays can last 10-15 years or more, providing long-lasting durability and aesthetics.

Are inlays and onlays covered by insurance?

In many cases, inlays and onlays are covered by dental insurance, depending on your plan and the reason for the restoration. We recommend checking with your insurance provider for more details.

How do I care for my inlays and onlays?

You should continue to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Avoid chewing on hard objects, and visit Arbutus North Dental for regular check-ups to ensure the longevity of your restorations.

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!

Your dental care is our priority. With 25 experienced technicians on our team, we’re ready to handle all your needs. Share your details, and we’ll give you a call to discuss your smile transformation. Looking forward to connecting with you soon!