When teeth are severely damaged from decay or fracture, there are generally two ways to restore them. A “crown” is indicated when the damage is severe, or extends to or near the gumline. In the old days, this was the only predictable solution.
Onlays, or “partial-crowns” are now indicated when there is enough healthy tooth structure to restore the tooth with a more conservative approach. A dental “inlay” or “onlay” is a more conservative tooth preparation and results in less trauma to the tooth being restored. The technological advancements in dental bonding and dental materials make these “partial-crown” restorations possible.
These types of dental restorations are performed directly in our office with the use of CAD/CAM (computer-aided design, computer-aided manufacturing) technology. CAD/CAM technology uses 3-D images to design and produce ceramic restorations right here in our office while you wait! With a series of 3-D pictures of your tooth, our doctors can design and create inlays, onlays and crowns while you relax in the chair.
With proper care, an inlay, onlay, or crown made in this fashion is a permanent restoration. To preserve the life of any dental restoration, practice excellent oral hygiene and maintain your routine appointments in our office. Call us today at (919) 847-1322 to schedule any pending treatment you may have!