There are three primary treatment choices when teeth have significant decay: composite fillings, crowns, and inlays/onlays. Composite fillings are recommended when tooth decay is in only in initial stages. These fillings are comprised of resin, which is put into a newly drilled and properly cleaned cavity, and then a layer is used to dry it. It is necessary for fillings to be small, because when fillings are too large, they can crack, which can unfortunately lead to a root canal. Crowns are used when most of the tooth has been damaged. The damaged parts of the tooth are removed and then shaped to allow for a porcelain crown to be placed on top of it, so the mouth’s appearance and the ability to chew food are maintained. At Capital Dental Design, crowns are always an option, but our goal is always to protect and maintain as much of the original tooth structure as is possible.

When the amount of tooth-damage is somewhere between minimal and maximum decay inlays and onlays are the ideal choice. As with crowns, they are created in a dental lab to fit the size of the holes that need addressing and are specifically shaped for your tooth. As with fillings, they allow for the bulk of the tooth structure to be maintained. In most of the cases where less than 50 percent of the tooth needs to be replaced, we will suggest inlays or inlays.

To learn more about inlays and onlays, please refer to the following, or schedule an appointment today. We proudly serve patients throughout Richmond and the surrounding area, including neighborhoods like Southampton, Stratford Hills, Westover Hills, Bon Air, Libbie and Grove, Church Hill, The Fan, Westham, Museum District, and Mooreland Farms.

At Capital Dental Design, we are committed to providing you with effective, considerate care and helping you get the bright, beautiful smile you have always wanted!