A cavity is damage to a tooth caused by tooth decay. If you have a cavity, our dentist will remove the decayed part of your tooth and then fill the tooth with a filling material. When there is not enough tooth structure left to support a filling but a crown is not necessary, Dr. Robert P. Sherman may suggest a dental onlay or inlay in Leawood, Kansas. Inlays and onlays can last up to 30 years, which is much longer than fillings. They can be made out of composite resin, porcelain, or gold.
An inlay is similar to a filling but is used when the damage is contained within the bumps of the chewing surface of a tooth. Onlays, also called partial crowns, are more extensive than inlays. They cover one or more cusps, or bumps, on the chewing surface of the tooth. After the cavity is removed, our dentist will take an impression of the tooth so the inlay or onlay can be constructed. By using CEREC® technology, Dr. Robert P. Sherman can construct and place inlays and onlays in just one visit! Before placing the restoration, our dentist will check its fit in your mouth and make any necessary adjustments. When ready, the inlay or onlay is cemented permanently into place. We welcome you to call our office to learn more and to schedule an appointment with our dentist today.