A Brief Overview Of Dental Inlays And Overlays

If you have been searching for a more conservative approach (other than crowns or porcelain veneers) for improving the appearance of your teeth and restoring your smile, you might want to consider getting dental inlays or overlays. This is one of the many services we provide at Stony Brook Family Dentistry of Long Island and it may just be right for you. Inlays and overlays are effective for correcting the appearance of a person’s teeth and treating cracked teeth. These procedures are characterized by their durability because they are made from composite resins or porcelain.

Dental inlays address the biting surface of your molars, but only the central biting area. They are used to correct the damage that has occurred as a result of cavities, to repair cracks that do not justify having a crown, and for the replacement of any metal fillings you may have. But unlike inlays, dental overlays can be extended over the cusps of your teeth. In both cases, the colors that are used in the inlay or overlay procedure ensures that the dental work you have had is not visible to the naked eye. Basically, no one that you come into contact with will ever know that you have had this type of procedure performed.

Another factor to consider with dental inlays and overlays is that temperature contraction or expansion will not be an issue. This is not the case with metal fillings. Compared to standard fillings, inlays and overlays have greater longevity and can last (in some cases) up to 30 years at a time. Most importantly, they are a much more cost-effective and simpler alternative when you compare them to other restorative procedures. If you want to restore your smile but have certain budget concerns, we encourage you to contact Stony Brook Family Dentistry today so we can inform you of the benefits of dental inlays and overlays.