The biting surfaces of your molars and premolars often have deep textures in the tooth enamel. These natural pits and fissures aid in the efficient breakdown of food so that it can be safely swallowed. However, these deep occlusal recesses can sometimes trap bacterial deposits that could come to foster a large cavity.
If our doctor notices a cavity in one of your molars during your dental checkup at Orlando Family Dentistry, LLC, he might be able to repair the tooth by installing a dental inlay or onlay. Also known as partial crowns, these restorations are very similar to a dental filling.
A dental inlay is typically used to treat a cavity that is limited exclusively to the tooth’s biting surface. If the compromised area extends beyond the biting surface of the tooth, Dr. John Orlando or Dr. Christopher Spelman will likely need to treat it with a larger dental onlay.
Treating a tooth with a large occlusal cavity starts with our doctor numbing the area and removing all traces of tooth decay. Once this is done, our doctor will apply a temporary dental filling to help maintain the integrity of the tooth. A state-of-the-art dental lab will create your inlay or onlay from either a gold alloy or a special porcelain material.
When your inlay or onlay is ready, it will be cemented to the prepared area of tooth enamel with a strong dental adhesive. This will restore the tooth’s essential function in your mouth for many years to come.
If you live in Hopewell, New Jersey, and if you are concerned about the health of one of your teeth, you should call 609-466-1332 to seek treatment at Orlando Family Dentistry, LLC.