Dental Inlays and Onlays in Rogers, AR

Classified between a tooth-colored filling and a full crown, an inlay or onlay can repair a decayed or damaged tooth. Typically used on pre-molars and molars, an inlay covers the indented middle of a tooth while an onlay covers the tooth's rounded, upper edges. Inlays and onlays can also be created with different materials — porcelain, metal, and composite resin. At All About Smiles, Dr. Brett Cotham can help patients understand crowns, fillings, inlays, and onlays before they make the best choice about treating their teeth in Rogers, AR. 

An inlay or onlay is a fantastic option when you have a cracked tooth or a large cavity that's too big to get filled but does not require the complete protection of a crown. At your exam, All About Smiles may examine your x-rays to pick the ideal method for your needs. If an inlay or onlay is chosen, Dr. Cotham will discuss the available materials that will best fit your requirements. You may even talk about whether you'd like a direct restoration (an inlay or onlay created in our office using CEREC technology while you wait) versus an indirect restoration created in a dental lab.

After applying a numbing cream to your gums, Dr. Cotham will begin by cleaning out regions of decay. Other techniques of sedation may be used in case you experience stress or a powerful gag reflex. When the enamel is cleaned, impressions will be produced from your tooth. If you're getting an inlay or onlay made in a dental lab, a temporary cover will be set until it is prepared. As soon as your inlay or onlay is ready, we will carefully set and then bond it on your tooth. We will then polish the borders or adjust the fit so that your tooth is suitably coated and feels right.

If just local anesthesia is used, you can leave following your appointment and get back to your regular activities. You might experience mild discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity for a couple of days once your inlay or onlay is placed. Please call All About Smiles should you experience any issues following your treatment. Your inlay or onlay can be cared for, like your own teeth, with daily flossing and brushing. You need to schedule yearly dental examinations and twice-yearly cleanings so Dr. Cotham can evaluate the wear and health of your teeth. With appropriate maintenance, the procedure should last for several years before needing to be repaired or replaced. 

Inlays and onlays are a common procedure for dental cavities and other issues so they're generally paid in part by insurance. A team member can talk to your insurer to ascertain your particular policy prior to figuring out your personal expenses. All About Smiles can personalize your procedure with restoration materials to go with your budget and needs. At your consultative appointment, our team will discuss price quotes and payment types we take, such as low-cost medical financing.

Regardless of whether you need an inlay or onlay using metal or ceramic material, it is important to deal with a damaged or decayed tooth before it turns into a debilitating and costly issue. Find out more about inlays and onlays to renew your smile by making an appointment at All About Smiles in Rogers, AR. We can help revive your teeth using the very best remedy for your requirements.