An inlay restoration is a custom made filling made of composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain.  Porcelain inlays are popular because they resemble your natural tooth.  A porcelain inlay is either made by a dental lab in two appointments or by  the CEREC machine while you wait and is permanently cemented into the tooth by your dentist.

Inlays can be utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma.  Inlays are an ideal alternative to conventional silver and composite fillings.  Also, they are more conservative than crowns because less tooth structure is removed in the preparation of inlays.

As with most dental restorations, inlays are not always permanent and may someday require replacement.  They are highly durable usually lasting longer than regular fillings, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

Reasons for inlay restorations:

• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Cosmetic enhancement.
• Decayed teeth.
• Fractured fillings.
• Large fillings.

What does getting an inlay involve?

An lab fabricated indirect inlay procedure usually requires two appointments.  Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate impressions (molds) that will be used to create your custom inlay and a temporary restoration. 

If it is done with the CEREC machine, instead of impressions, special photographs are made of the tooth and it is made using CAD CAM technology and milled from a solid block of porcelain in our lab.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will remove any decay and/or old filling materials.  The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared, shaping the surface to properly fit an inlay restoration.  

If done indirectly, at your second appointment your new inlay will be carefully and precisely cemented into place.  A few adjustments may be necessary to ensure a proper fit and that your bite is comfortable.  If done with the CEREC machine, this will be done after a short wait of a few minutes.  We have TV, some movies and magazines for your enjoyment as you sit comfortably in your chair or you can lay down and take a rare cat nap.

You will receive care instruction at the conclusion of your treatment.  Good oral hygiene practices, a proper diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new inlay.