Sealants, Composite Fillings, Inlays/ Onlays
Sealants
Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars, premolars, and teeth with deep grooves (pits and fissures). Over 75% of cavities begin in these hard-to-clean grooves. Sealants create a smooth surface, protecting teeth from decay.
Sealants can last for years but should be checked regularly for wear or chipping during dental visits.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, repair teeth affected by decay, cracks, or fractures. The damaged portion is removed, and the tooth is restored with a composite material closely matched to your natural tooth color, making it ideal for front teeth or visible areas.
Inlay Restorations
Inlay restorations are custom-made fillings crafted from composite, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain. Designed in a professional dental lab, they are securely cemented into the tooth by your dentist.
Inlays are ideal for repairing teeth with large defective fillings or damage from decay or trauma. They offer a conservative alternative to traditional fillings and crowns, preserving more of the natural tooth structure.
While durable and long-lasting, inlays may require replacement over time.
Onlay Restorations
An onlay is a custom-made dental restoration crafted from composite, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain, often called a partial crown. Made by a dental lab, it is permanently bonded to your tooth by your dentist.
Onlays are a conservative solution for teeth with large fillings or damage from decay or trauma. Unlike crowns, onlays preserve more of your natural tooth structure. They are similar to inlays but also cover one or more chewing cusps.
Though durable and long-lasting, onlays may need replacement over time.