Dental Fillings, Inlays & Partial Crowns

Fillings

Dental fillings are designed to repair cavities in teeth. Cavities, often caused by tooth decay, can go unnoticed by patients. If untreated, they can destroy the tooth, making early intervention crucial. After removing the decayed tissue, the dentist fills the space with a dental filling material. Fillings, known as direct restorations, restore teeth in a single visit. For larger cavities, indirect restorations like inlays or onlays may be suggested, requiring two visits.

Most patients can receive fillings, which are straightforward and provide long-term protection for decayed teeth. You might suspect a cavity if a tooth feels broken or is sensitive to cold or sweets, but often cavities go undetected until late stages. Early diagnosis is key to preserving healthy tooth substance.

The choice of tooth fillings depends on the size of the decay and your personal preferences. We will decide together on the best option for you after thoroughly discussing the pros and cons. We will also inform you about any related costs in advance, ensuring you have all the information you need before making a decision. A tooth damaged by decay or trauma can be restored with either composite (white fillings) or ceramic. These restorations are referred to as inlays, onlays, or overlays, depending on their extent. The primary difference between these options is that ceramic restorations need to be manufactured outside the patient’s mouth, usually requiring two visits.

Cement Fillings

For emergency situations, glass ionomer cement can temporarily fill a cavity. These temporary fillings last a few weeks and need to be replaced with composite or porcelain fillings.

Composite Fillings

Also called "white fillings," composite fillings match the natural tooth color, making them nearly indistinguishable. Made from a mix of glass and resin, they are less durable than ceramic, gold, or amalgam fillings but are often preferred for smaller cavities due to their conservative and costeffective nature.

Gold Inlays

Chosen for their functionality and durability, gold inlays last between 10-30 years. Though more expensive than composite fillings, gold inlays are incredibly strong. However, modern ceramics now often match or surpass gold in performance, making them less commonly recommended today. Unlike traditional fillings, they will be produced by the laboratory. **Porcelain inlays** Porcelain inlays are custom-made restorations used to repair moderately damaged or decayed teeth. Unlike traditional fillings, inlays are fabricated in a dental laboratory to precisely fit the cavity, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal function. Porcelain is chosen for its durability and natural appearance, blending seamlessly with the tooth’s enamel. Inlays are particularly suitable for restoring the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, providing a strong, long-lasting solution that also enhances the aesthetic of the smile.