Do you have a “partially” damaged or decayed tooth? If you have a tooth that is too damaged to support a tooth filling, but not damaged enough to require a dental crown, you may be a good candidate for a dental inlay or onlay restoration. Capping a damaged tooth with a dental crown may unnecessarily remove more tooth structure than is actually needed. On the other hand, a dental filling that’s too large can significantly weaken the remaining healthy structure of a damaged tooth, causing additional fracturing or leading to the need for a root canal. Dental inlays and onlays solve this problem. They fall somewhere in between dental filling and dental crown restorations. Dental inlays and onlays can fully restore large cavities and are a less invasive and more affordable way to renew the form and function of a damaged tooth. If you think you might need a dental inlay or onlay, make an appointment with Dr. Keuning and Dr. Riley at Juno Beach Smiles for your restorative dental care consultation today. Dr. Keuning and Dr. Riley are trusted restorative dentists, delivering quality care daily throughout: Juno Beach, FL, Palm Beach Gardens, Tequesta, North Palm Beach, and the surrounding Florida communities.

How Are Dental Inlays and Onlays Different?

Dental inlays and onlays are actually the same restoration, but they are used to restore different proportions of a tooth. A dental inlay fills the space in between the cusps, or rounded edges, at the center of a tooth’s surface. A dental onlay works like an inlay but covers one or more cusps or the entire biting surface of a tooth. Because of their more extensive coverage, dental onlays are sometimes referred to as partial crowns. They are more durable and last longer than dental fillings, and are typically made of composite resin or porcelain. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, your dental inlay or onlay can last a lifetime.

Do You Need Restorative Dental Care?

Whether you think you need a dental filling, dental inlay, onlay, or dental crown, doesn’t matter. All that really matters is that you get the restorative dental treatment you need. Ignoring your dental problems can jeopardize your dental and overall health, regardless of which type of restoration you end up getting.

Juno Beach Restorative Dentistry Appointments

Make your restorative dentistry appointment with Dr. Keuning and Dr. Riley at Juno Beach Smiles today. Dr. Keuning and Dr. Riley are restorative dentistry specialists, now proudly renewing smiles daily throughout: Juno Beach, FL, Palm Beach Gardens, Tequesta, North Palm Beach, and nearby areas.