Cosmetic
Dentistry
Cosmetic Restorations in Pembroke, ON
Inlays, Onlays, and Composite Fillings
Have Tooth Damage? Consider a Restoration Treatment
Accidents happen, and sometimes these accidents lead to dental damage. Cosmetic imperfections like missing or damaged teeth can make it difficult to be proud of your smile. At Parkview Dental in Pembroke, ON, we understand how vital your smile is to your confidence and overall well-being.
Our restorative treatments—specifically inlays, onlays, and composite fillings—provide effective solutions for restoring both functionality and aesthetics to your teeth. This comprehensive guide will delve into these restorative options, detailing their applications, benefits, and the process involved in treatment. Call our Pembroke dentist at (613) 735-2336 with additional questions or to schedule your dental restoration.
Experience Comprehensive Care at Parkview Dental
At Parkview Dental, your smile is our top priority. Our goal is to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that you can be proud of. Dr. Munro and our highly trained staff are dedicated to providing quality care with a personal touch.
Why Parkview Dental
At Parkview Dental, our mission is clear: to help patients of all ages achieve and maintain their best smiles. We are committed to promoting healthy smiles by offering a comprehensive range of general, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatments tailored for patients of all ages.
The office utilizes advanced dental technologies such as iTero intraoral scanning and digital impressions, which enhance treatment planning and offer comfort compared to traditional methods. Dr. Munro is a preferred choice for dental care among patients in Pembroke, ON, due to a commitment to helping them achieve their ideal smiles.
Patient-First Dentistry in Pembroke
To ensure a positive patient experience, our Pembroke, ON dental office emphasizes patient education and comfort. Every new patient meets with Dr. Munro to discuss their oral health concerns and smile goals. During treatment, we guide patients through each phase, ensuring they are fully informed about their care.
At Parkview Dental, patient care is prioritized, especially for those with dental anxiety. The team is friendly and accommodating, and Dr. Munro offers sedation dentistry as a safe option for various procedures, helping to ease anxiety for all patients.
If you’re in Pembroke or surrounding areas like Petawawa, Deep River, or Chalk River, we’re here to help restore your smile. Whether you need an inlay, onlay, or composite filling, contact us today at (613) 735-2336, and let us guide you on your journey to dental health.
Understanding Inlays and Onlays
What Are Inlays?
What Are Inlays?Inlays are a type of dental restoration specifically designed for areas of your tooth situated closer to its center on the chewing surface. They are typically used for larger cavities that traditional fillings cannot address effectively. Inlays are custom-made from durable materials like porcelain or composite resin, allowing them to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
One of the greatest advantages of inlays is their ability to enhance the overall strength of the tooth by up to 75%. This means that, in addition to filling a cavity, inlays reinforce the structural integrity of the tooth and prevent future decay or damage.
What Are Onlays?
Onlays are similar to inlays but designed to cover a larger portion of the tooth, including the cusps (the pointed parts of your teeth). Onlays are ideal for restoring damage that extends beyond the inner areas of the tooth and onto its outer surfaces. They also offer an excellent solution when a cavity is too extensive for a standard filling but not severe enough to warrant a full crown.
Much like inlays, onlays are crafted from materials that mimic the look of natural teeth, ensuring that your smile retains its aesthetic appeal. They provide significant durability and help maintain the tooth’s original structure effectively.
Why Choose Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays present a compelling alternative to traditional fillings and crowns. They offer numerous benefits, including:
- Longevity: Both treatments can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years with proper care, making them a durable choice for tooth restoration.
- Natural Appearance: As these restorations are fabricated from tooth-colored materials, they blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, giving you a beautiful smile.
- Minimal Tooth Reduction: Unlike crowns, which can necessitate the removal of more of the tooth structure, inlays and onlays preserve more of your natural tooth while effectively treating damage or decay.
Exploring Composite Fillings
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are another restorative option that is used for minor tooth decay or cosmetic defects. These fillings use a tooth-colored resin to fill cavities or repair small chips and cracks, restoring the tooth’s natural shape and function.
Dr. James Munro often recommends composite fillings for patients who experience:
- Frequent toothaches
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Cavities or decay
- Dark spots on teeth
- Worn or broken fillings
Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth, providing extra strength while maintaining a natural appearance that blends well with your original enamel.
Benefits of Composite Fillings
Composite fillings come with various advantages that make them an ideal choice for many patients:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Their ability to match the color of your natural teeth makes composite fillings a popular choice, especially for visible areas.
- Strength and Durability: These fillings provide substantial strength, making them highly effective for minor to moderate decay.
- Less Tooth Removal: The application of composite fillings preserves more of the healthy tooth structure compared to traditional amalgam fillings.
Advantages of Metal-Free Fillings
Traditional silver fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, are no longer the ideal filling material. Not only does it contain 50 percent mercury, which can leak and stain your teeth, but these fillings can break down over time, leaving your tooth vulnerable to bacteria.
Composite fillings preserve more of your natural tooth and have a natural appearance. There’s no risk of staining, and they’ll last much longer than their metal alternatives.
The Treatment Process at Parkview Dental
Initial Consultation
During your initial visit to Parkview Dental, Dr. Munro will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health. Using advanced technology, such as digital X-rays and intraoral scanning, he will assess the extent of decay or damage. Based on this evaluation, he will recommend the most appropriate restorative treatment tailored to your needs.
Preparation
If you’re receiving an inlay, onlay, or composite filling, we will prepare the affected tooth by removing any decayed or damaged material. The area will be cleaned and shaped to ensure a solid bond with the restoration.
Custom Fabrication
- Inlays and Onlays: After preparing your tooth, impressions will be taken and sent to a dental laboratory where your custom inlays or onlays will be fabricated. You will be provided with a temporary restoration to protect the tooth until your final restoration is ready.
- Composite Fillings: Composite fillings, on the other hand, can often be placed in a single visit. The resin material is applied in layers, each layer cured with a special light to harden it securely.
Final Placement
Once your inlays or onlays are ready, you will return to our Pembroke practice for final placement. Dr. Munro will ensure that the fit is perfect and make any necessary adjustments for comfort and functionality. Composite fillings will be polished to achieve a natural look, ensuring your restored smile feels as good as it looks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay is designed for repairs to the inner surfaces of your teeth, while an onlay covers a broader area, extending over the cusps and often a portion of the tooth’s outer surface. Both are used for cases where traditional fillings may not suffice.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
Inlays and onlays can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years with proper care. Their longevity depends on factors such as oral hygiene, the extent of damage, and overall dental health.
Are composite fillings safe?
Yes, composite fillings are considered safe for dental use. They are made of biocompatible materials and do not contain mercury, making them a healthier alternative to traditional metal fillings.
What should I expect after getting my restoration?
After receiving an inlay, onlay, or composite filling, you may experience some sensitivity in the treated area. This is typically temporary. It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene and follow up with your dentist as recommended.
How can I care for my new restoration?
Good oral hygiene is key to ensuring the longevity of your restoration. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and attend regular dental cleanings and check-ups to keep your smile healthy.
Schedule Your Dental Restoration Today!
Don’t let dental damage hold you back from enjoying life to the fullest. Our team at Parkview Dental is equipped with the latest dental technology and a compassionate approach to help you achieve your smile goals. If you’re in Pembroke or the surrounding areas of Petawawa, Deep River, or Chalk River, we’re here to help with all of your dental care needs. Call us now at (613) 735-2336 to schedule your consultation. Let’s work together to ensure your smile shines brightly for years to come!