After decay is removed from a tooth, something must be placed in that space to give strength back to the tooth. Our office only uses metal-free fillings.
Fillings: Fillings are the most common restorative procedure.
Inlays and onlays: In addition to fillings, lab fabricated inlays and onlays are sometimes used. Although many patients think of these as fillings as well, they are actually different since they are laboratory fabricated.
White
fillings: White (metal-free) fillings are an alternative to silver (mercury
amalgam) fillings. White fillings are made of a strong composite resin that
is matched to the surrounding tooth color. In the past, white fillings were
placed only on front teeth, but a stronger, more durable material has been
developed that can withstand the chewing pressure of back teeth.
White fillings are often preferrable because:
- Many patients prefer mercury-free fillings
- Cosmetic reasons
- Patients with sensitivity to heat or cold find metal-free fillings to be more comfortable.
White
Porcelain or Resin inlay or onlay: A
porcelain or resin inlay or onlay is used when the cavity
is too big for a filling, but isn't so big that a crown
is required. An inlay is a filling within the cusp tips of the tooth. Onlays
(also known as overlays) will overlay one or more cusps in order to protect
and strengthen the tooth.
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© Copyright 2003- Dental WebSmith, Inc. and Michael J. Minihane, DDS. All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The information provided within is intended to help you better understand dental conditions and procedures. It is not meant to serve as delivery of medical or dental care. If you have specific questions or concerns, contact your health care provider.
