Cavities and worn edges used to mean dark metal fillings that stood out when you laughed. Fortunately, modern materials let us repair damage almost invisibly. If you’ve spotted a new shadow on a tooth or have an old filling to replace, here’s a plain-English guide to tooth-colored fillings, inlays, and onlays—what they are, when we recommend them, and how to keep them looking great.
The Spectrum Of Conservative Restorations
Think of restorations as a scale. At one end is a small, bonded composite filling for minor decay or chips. In the middle are inlays (fit inside the tooth’s cusps) and onlays (cover one or more cusps) crafted outside the mouth for precision. At the far end is a full crown that encases the entire tooth. Our goal is always to preserve as much healthy structure as possible while restoring strength and function.
When A Tooth-Colored Filling Is Best
For small to moderate cavities, bonded composite is ideal. After removing decay, we place the tooth-colored material in layers and cure it with light, sculpting a natural shape. Benefits include:
- Seamless esthetics that match your enamel
- Conservative preparation—only the decay is removed
- Immediate function once cured
- Repairability if a small chip occurs
When An Inlay Or Onlay Shines
When damage is too large for a regular filling—but a full crown would be overkill—an inlay or onlay provides a sturdy, tailored solution. These restorations are made from high-strength ceramic or composite and bonded securely to your tooth. They distribute biting forces efficiently and can last many years with good care. We’ll recommend inlays/onlays when:
- A cusp is cracked or undermined
- A large metal filling needs replacement
- You clench or grind and need extra durability
- The bite requires precise shaping for comfort
What About Old Silver Fillings?
Amalgam has served dentistry for decades, but it can expand/contract differently than enamel over time. If a silver filling is intact and the tooth is healthy, we may leave it alone. However, if there’s leakage, cracks, or recurrent decay, a tooth-colored alternative restores both function and appearance. During your exam we’ll photograph and discuss options transparently. Learn more about our restorative approach here: General Dentistry.
The Appointment Experience
- Assessment & Imaging: We confirm the diagnosis and choose the most conservative option that will last.
- Comfort First: Profound numbing and gentle technique; nitrous oxide is available if you’re anxious (see General Dentistry for comfort options).
- Preparation & Placement: For composite, we bond and shape in one visit. For inlays/onlays, we scan, place a temporary, and bond the final restoration at your next appointment.
- Bite Check: We fine-tune your bite so chewing feels natural right away.
How Long Do They Last?
With daily care and regular cleanings, composites often last many years; inlays/onlays can last a decade or more. Lifespan depends on size, bite forces, grinding habits, and home care. A night guard can protect larger restorations if you clench.
Color, Shine, And Stain Resistance
Ceramic inlays/onlays resist stains well. Composite can slightly discolor over time with coffee, tea, or red wine; professional polishing and occasional refinements keep things looking fresh. Whitening is best done before new restorations so we can match your brighter shade.
Cost And Insurance
Insurance typically contributes toward fillings and, depending on your plan, inlays/onlays. We’ll review a written estimate and discuss phased care if multiple teeth need attention.
Small Fixes, Big Confidence
Modern materials mean you can fix decay and cracks without advertising it every time you smile. If you’ve been postponing a replacement, a conservative solution may be simpler than you think.
Have a broken or sensitive tooth? Call All About Smiles in Rogers, AR at 870-669-1507 to Book an Appointment and restore strength and beauty—seamlessly.