Another cavity! As a child you may have been the recipient of many a “metal filling”. Now you most likely prefer the more attractive ceramic. But did you know inlay or onlay fillings are your other alternative? At Dr. Ziegele’s Olympia area Cosmetic Dentistry practice, we offer patients these cosmetic options as well as many other dental services.
Those dental terms probably aren’t ringing a bell, so let us explain.
Traditional fillings serve their purpose in repairing a cavity-damaged tooth. However, in order to perform this procedure, a percentage of the tooth must be removed. Consequently, the strength of that tooth is reduced by up to 50 percent.
On the other hand, when repairing a cavity using the alternative treatment of inlays or onlays, removal of less of the tooth is required in preparation for the repair. Then using special high-strength resins the filling can actually increase the strength of the tooth by up to 75 percent!
What’s involved? After removing only the damaged section of your tooth, a gum mold will be taken to allow the laboratory to construct an exact fit for an inlay or onlay. This will be matched to the natural color of your teeth. Your second and final visit will be for the installation. This utilizes special technology, with a tooth-to-restoration margin finished and polished to such a super-fine degree that recurrent decay will be all but impossible thereafter, providing proper hygiene is implemented. Inlay or onlay fillings frequently outlast traditional fillings and retain their function between 10 and 30 years, which means fewer trips to the dentist chair for you.
Consult us today and experience first-hand why residents of Olympia value the Cosmetic Dentistry skills of Dr. Ziegele!
