Tooth decay is a potentially serious health problem that can affect the function, health and appearance of your smile. Although tooth decay is one of the most common chronic conditions in the country, it is often under-recognized and can go untreated. When a cavity is not treated, the affected tooth, the jaw bone and even the soft tissues of the mouth can be permanently affected. The tooth can even be lost. Our expert in inlays in Culver City offers conservative treatment options whenever possible for all stages of tooth decay.

A small cavity can generally be repaired using a small tooth-colored filling, but fillings may not be appropriate for larger cavities. The structure of the tooth can be compromised, which is why dentists have traditionally used dental crowns when teeth have suffered extensive decay or cavities. Today, our expert in onlays in Culver City offers another option: inlays and onlays.

Also called indirect fillings, inlays and onlays are a conservative alternative to dental crowns. Similar to dental fillings, they can restore decayed or damaged teeth. However, much like a crown, they are made in a dental laboratory for a flawless fit. Our Culver City inlays expert can help you determine if you are a candidate for an inlay, which restores damage or decay between the cusps of a tooth, or an onlay, which restores damage by covering one or more cusps.

At your initial appointment, our Culver City onlays expert will evaluate the tooth and clean out any decayed tissue. Dental impressions will be taken to create the new restoration, and a temporary filling will be placed. When your indirect filling is ready, you will return to our office. A special cement material will be used along with a high-intensity light to bond the tooth-colored inlay or onlay to your tooth.

Taking care of inlays and onlays is just as easy as taking care of your own teeth. Simply brush twice a day, floss every day and visit us every six months for a checkup. To learn more, give us a call and schedule an appointment with our Culver City dentist.