What Are Inlays and Onlays and How Do They Work?
You're not alone if you’re unsure how inlays and onlays differ from a dental filling. Here’s what you need to know about inlays and onlays and why you might need this restoration option.
Understanding the Differences Between Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry
Some of the most popular dental treatments, like crowns, porcelain veneers, and dental implants, are both cosmetic and restorative. They make your teeth look better while fixing damage and improving your oral health.
Whether you want to improve minor imperfections or have a full smile makeover, you have options. At the Center for Implant & Esthetic Dentistry, our prosthodontist, Dr. Ramin Mahallat,i and our team offer a range of restorative and cosmetic dentistry services at our office in Beverly Hills, California.
What’s the difference between cosmetic and restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry repairs damage to your teeth and gums and improves function. If you have gum disease, restorative dentistry treatments are essential not just to fix existing damage but to prevent it from progressing to periodontitis, which can result in irreparable damage and even tooth loss.
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving aesthetics, like teeth whitening treatments or veneers.
While cosmetic treatments are usually elective, restorative treatments like fillings or crowns are necessary. Delaying or ignoring restorative treatment may require more invasive and expensive treatments in the future and put you at greater risk of developing gum disease.
Restorative dental treatments include:
- Dentures
- Fillings
- Crowns
- Dental implants
- Inlays and onlays
Common cosmetic dentistry treatments include:
- Professional teeth whitening
- Bonding
- Veneers
In some cases, you might need a restorative treatment before making cosmetic improvements. For example, if you have a cavity or signs of gum disease, these must be treated first before cosmetic treatment.
Which dental treatment is right for you?
The first step is to schedule an appointment for a consultation. If your last visit to the dentist was more than six months ago, you’re probably due for a checkup and cleaning.
A good oral hygiene routine, a healthy diet, and regular dental care are the best ways to protect yourself from cavities, gum disease, and the associated health problems.
After a comprehensive dental exam and evaluation, Dr. Mahallati and our team will recommend the best treatment for your personal goals and dental needs.
How to protect your teeth and gums
Even if you’ve neglected your oral health for years or have had problems with cavities, damage, and gum disease in the past, it’s never too late to take control of your oral health. The most powerful thing you can do is to practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing every day.
If you have cosmetic improvements you’d like to make but have put them off, it’s never too late to invest in yourself. Even a professional teeth whitening treatment can dramatically improve your smile and boost your confidence and self-esteem at work and in your personal life.
To learn more about the restorative and cosmetic dentistry services available at the Center for Implant & Esthetic Dentistry, contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mahallati at our office in Beverly Hills.
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