Porcelain Inlays and Onlays in Farmingdale, NY

Inlays and onlays can repair a damaged or decayed tooth that needs more support than what a filling can provide but doesn't quite need a crown. Used on premolars and molars, these are tooth-colored and easily blend in with the tooth itself. An inlay covers the grooves in the center of your tooth and an onlay covers your tooth's rounded, upper edges. Like dental fillings and crowns, inlays and onlays can be made in a variety of materials — porcelain, composite resin, and metal. Our skilled team of dentists can help Farmingdale, NY patients understand tooth-colored fillings, crowns, inlays, and onlays so we can help you make the decision about treating your damaged teeth at Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates.

Inlays and onlays are a good choice if you have a chipped tooth or a large cavity that is too big to get filled but does not require the full coverage of a crown. During your examination, Dr. Kahn, Dr. Ferrari, Dr. Aldieri, or a member of their team may examine your digital x-rays to pick the ideal treatment for your needs. If an onlay or inlay is chosen, they will discuss the available materials that will best meet your requirements. They will talk to you about the difference between a direct restoration (an inlay or onlay made at our office using CEREC technology while you wait) versus an indirect restoration made in a dental lab so you can make the best decision together.

After applying a numbing cream to the treatment area, your dentist will start by removing regions of decay from your tooth. Other methods of sedation can be used if you experience stress or a strong gag reflex. When the enamel is cleaned, impressions of your tooth will be made. Once your onlay or inlay is ready, one of our dentists will carefully set and bond it onto your tooth. He or she may polish the edges or adjust the fit so that your tooth is correctly coated and comfortable for you.

If just local anesthesia was used while placing your inlay or onlay, you will be able to leave after your appointment and return to your normal activities. You might feel some discomfort, inflammation, or sensitivity for a few days, but that is normal and should subside. Your inlay or onlay can be cleaned just like your natural teeth with daily flossing and brushing. You should schedule yearly dental exams and biannual cleanings in Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates so we can evaluate the health and wear of your inlay or onlay. With appropriate maintenance, it ought to last for several years before replacing or repairing. Please call Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates if you have any questions or concerns following your treatment.

How long do porcelain inlays and onlays last?
Porcelain inlays and onlays typically last between 20–30 years. Our team will give you personalized care recommendations to help maximize the longevity of your restoration. If you’re interested in porcelain inlays or onlays, contact Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates to discuss your options with our team.

What should I do if my inlay or onlay breaks?
Contact our Farmingdale, NY office immediately if your porcelain inlay or onlay breaks. We'll assess the damage; in most cases, the restoration can be repaired or repositioned to restore its original function and appearance.

Can my inlay or onlay be adjusted?
Our team ensures a precise fit when placing your inlay or onlay. However, if an adjustment becomes necessary over time, we can modify the restoration to maintain comfort and durability, similar to the adjustments possible with a crown.

Inlays and onlays at Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates can help repair your damaged tooth in a relatively simple procedure, working to prevent pain and further damage and expense down the road. These long-lasting tooth-colored forms of restoration are barely visible and will help strengthen your weak and damaged tooth. We can help you improve your oral health using the best and latest forms of treatment available to suit.