If your teeth have damage and decay, a trip to the dentist is the first step in getting them repaired. While fillings are the most well-known method of repairing teeth, sometimes teeth are too damaged for a filling. On the other hand, they may not be damaged enough to place a crown. In these cases, dental inlays and onlays are the ideal middle ground. At Lovett Dental Gulfgate, we use the most up-to-date procedures to place dental inlays.
What Are Dental Inlays?
Also known as indirect fillings, inlays and onlays repair damaged teeth. When that damage does not extend to the cusps of the tooth, an inlay might work. Dental onlays in Gulfgate, TX, are for when one or more of the cusps of the tooth have damage. Placed over the edges of the tooth, an onlay extends onto the chewing surface of molars.
Inlays and onlays are a strong and durable alternative to fillings. They don’t easily discolor, preserving the aesthetics of your smile. While fillings can sometimes weaken teeth, inlays and onlays strengthen them. They seal the teeth well, keeping out bacteria and making your teeth easy to clean. Additionally, onlays can even protect weak teeth.
Inlays and onlays seldom fail. They have a five-year survival rate of over 90%, making them a long-lasting solution for repairing damaged or decaying teeth.
Placing Dental Inlays
Members of our highly skilled dental team at Lovett Dental Gulfgate place dental inlays and onlays. They typically take two visits to complete.
During the first visit, your dentist will examine your teeth to determine if an inlay or onlay is right for you. You will receive a local anesthetic, and the dentist will remove any decayed tissue in the tooth if necessary. He or she will then make an impression of the tooth with a mold.
The mold goes to a dental laboratory where technicians make the inlay or onlay. You may receive a temporary restoration of the tooth until your next visit when your inlay or onlay is ready.
When you return to our office, the dentist will remove the temporary restoration and bond the inlay or onlay to your tooth using a resin adhesive. He or she will then polish the tooth, giving it a natural look.
Dental Inlays Other Expert Dental Services
At Lovett Dental Gulfgate, we offer general dentistry services and multiple specialty dental services in Gulfgate, Texas. We have a team of board-certified dentists and specialists who are ready to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. In addition to dental inlays and onlays in Gulfgate, our services include:
- Veneers
- Implant-supported dentures
- Cosmetic dentistry
- General dentistry
- Pediatric dentistry
From cleanings to braces, we have you and your family covered. You can get all of your dental care at Lovett. If you have a need beyond general dentistry, we have different types of specialists, including:
- Orthodontists
- Periodontists
- Maxillofacial surgeons
- Endodontists
We’re here for you when you need us. Our office is one of our many locations in the Houston area offering comprehensive dental and specialty care. We are open early, late, and Saturdays for your convenience. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, we also offer same-day emergency appointments.
You can have the stunning smile you’ve always wanted. At Lovett Dental, we specialize in repairing damaged or decayed teeth. If you’re wondering if dental inlays and onlays in Gulfgate are right for you or you’re interested in any of our other dental services, contact Lovett Dental Gulfgate today at 713-847-8822 to book an appointment.
