Dental inlays and Onlays in Williston, VT

Identified between a regular filling and a full crown, a dental inlay or onlay can restore a damaged or decayed tooth. Used on molars and pre-molars, an inlay covers the indented middle of a tooth and onlays cover the rounded, upper edges of a tooth. Like dental fillings and crowns, onlays and inlays can be created with a variety of materials — composite resin, porcelain, and metal. Dentist Dr. Lauren Shanard can help Williston, VT patients understand fillings, crowns, onlays, and inlays before they make an informed decision about treating their teeth at Contemporary Dental Arts.

A dental inlay or onlay is a fantastic option when you've got a damaged tooth or a large cavity that's too big to get filled, but does not require the full protection of a crown. At your examination, Dr. Shanard will evaluate your x-rays to decide on the ideal treatment for your needs. If an onlay or inlay is chosen, she will go over the available materials that will best suit your needs. You may even talk about whether you'd like a direct restoration (an onlay or inlay created in our office using CEREC technology while you wait) versus an indirect restoration created in a dental lab.

After applying local anesthesia to numb your gums, Dr. Shanard 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 indirect restoration, a temporary cover will be set until it is prepared. As soon as your restoration is ready, Dr. Shanard will carefully set and then bond it on your tooth. She will polish the borders or adjust the fit so that your tooth is suitably coated and feels right.

If just local anesthesia is used, you should be able to leave following your appointment and get back to your regular activities. You might experience mild discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity for a few days once your onlay or inlay is placed. Please call Contemporary Dental Arts if you experience any issues following your treatment. Your dental inlay or onlay should be cleaned just like your own teeth using daily flossing and brushing. You need to schedule yearly dental examinations and twice yearly cleanings at Contemporary Dental Arts so Dr. Shanard can evaluate the wear and health of the restoration. With proper maintenance, it ought to last for several years before repairing or replacing.

Onlays and inlays are a common procedure for dental cavities and other damage, so they are generally paid in part by insurance. Our office can talk to your insurer to ascertain your particular policy prior to figuring out your personal expenses. Dr. Shanard can personalize your procedure with restoration materials to fit your budget and needs. During your consultative appointment, our financial coordinator will discuss price quotes and payment methods we take, such as low-cost medical financing through CareCredit® and Lending Club®.

Regardless of whether you select an onlay or inlay, metal or ceramic, indirect or direct, it is important to treat a damaged or decayed tooth before it turns into a debilitating and costly issue. Find out more about dental inlays and onlays to renew your mouth by making an appointment at Contemporary Dental Arts in Williston, VT. Dr. Shanard and her team can help revive your smile and oral health using the very best remedy for your requirements.