Tooth decay is a common problem for patients who do not properly maintain the health of their smile. This condition can be either mild or severe. Initial stages of tooth decay, also known as cavities, may cause sensitivity to patients who are eating hot or cold foods and drinks or enjoy sugary foods. This is often an indication of a problem such as cavities for Rosemead area patients. Most patients can go visit their dentist at Gentle Care Dental of San Gabriel Valley to have a dental filling placed to seal off the tooth and reduce the likelihood of further problems. However, there are times when fillings are not enough to address larger areas of decay and patients should consider alternative dental restorations such as inlays and onlays.

Inlays and onlays are similar to dental crowns but do not cover the entire tooth. They are best in situations where fillings are not enough to restore a tooth after decay but a dental crown is overkill. Dr. Brianne Luu of Gentle Care Dental of San Gabriel Valley may suggest inlays and onlays as an alternative to both.

Inlays and onlays are made of ceramic and are fabricated to fit into or onto the tooth to repair it. They are fabricated from impressions of the natural tooth after preparation and are made at an outside dental laboratory by a quality ceramist. This ceramist matches the color of the natural tooth and the shape to provide a beautiful restoration that can be bonded into place and blend in with the natural smile. Many patients enjoy inlays and onlay because they are a conservative method of addressing area of decay in an affordable manner.

Patients in and around the Rosemead area who are interested in learning about alternative solutions to fillings and crowns are welcome to contact Gentle Care Dental of San Gabriel Valley and speak with Dr. Brianne Luu about inlays and onlays. These are just two of many restorative solutions available through her dental practice for new and existing patients interested in rejuvenating their smile and improving their dental health and wellness.

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