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Dr. Gould is a local Racine dentist who has years of experience restoring smiles using cosmetic treatments like inlays & onlays.
Dental inlays and onlays aren’t as familiar to most people as their closest relatives, fillings and crowns. But what they offer is in the same arena: the goal is to repair damaged or decayed parts of your teeth, and protect them long-term. Both inlays and onlays are part of our restorative dentistry services. If you’re having dental restoration work done, Dr. Gould may recommend an inlay or onlay.
An inlay is similar to a filling, in the sense that it’s used inside the tooth being repaired. It’s a good option when there’s a smaller amount of damage or decay in the tooth, or when the tooth’s internal strength has been compromised. Inlays are placed between the cusp tips of the tooth, so they’re typically used in cases where the cusps are intact. Dental inlays have an advantage over fillings, because they’re made from stronger material — usually porcelain or gold — that lasts longer and is more durable than conventional fillings.
Onlays are more closely related to crowns or caps, in that they repair damage and protect teeth from further damage. An onlay is typically used to restore a tooth in the back of the mouth when the chewing surface is damaged. Like inlays, onlays are usually made from porcelain or gold. Historically, both were always made from gold, but advances in dental technology have made resin and porcelain attractive materials in recent years. Porcelain in particular offers patients a solution that matches the look of their natural teeth.
Since both inlays and onlays are custom-made for each patient, the process usually takes two appointments. Dr. Gould would remove damaged or decayed areas of the tooth, or old fillings that are being replaced. Impressions of the tooth and the bite are made and given to the dental laboratory technician who, in communication with Dr. Gould, creates the inlay or onlay to precise specifications. A temporary restoration is placed to protect the tooth until the final inlay or onlay is completed.
At a second appointment the “temporary” is removed and the final inlay or onlay is tried in. When both Dr. Gould and the patient confirm an optimal fit, it is then bonded securely to the tooth with a strong adhesive. The dental inlay or onlay is polished so as to be smooth to the tongue. The restored tooth is both healthy and strong.
An inlay or onlay is a predictable long-term restoration. A conventional filling can seal a decayed tooth adequately, but an inlay or onlay, in addition to sealing a tooth well, will strengthen and protect the tooth from future damage.
Dr. Gould discusses with each patient available treatment options in an effort to make the most appropriate treatment decisions in keeping with the patient’s objectives and desires. A healthy mouth is the foundation of a confident smile! We are available to help; call us at 262-633-0080; text us at 414-902-3470 or contact us online using the form below.
We’re a purposefully-small dental office so our whole team can focus on delivering excellent, personalized care that’s never rushed. Dr. Gould and the team are passionate about making you feel comfortable and respected throughout the course of your care.
Dr. Gould prides himself on staying current with the best technologies and treatments in dentistry. From modern laser dentistry to injection-free numbing you can rest assured that you’ll receive excellent care in our office. This top-of-the-line approach is just one of many reasons Dr. Gould serves as the most preferred implant dentist in Racine, WI and the surrounding areas.
Dr. Gould has been an active member of the Racine community for years and frequently volunteers his dental services at the Healthcare Network. We believe deeply in bettering our community through our work.
