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Ceramic Inlays in San Diego, CA
Tooth decay or other dental damage in molars and premolars can be painful and make chewing difficult. Traditional fillings may not provide sufficient restoration and protection, but ceramic inlays are designed to restore these teeth and their chewing ability.
At La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry & Orthodontics, we provide high-quality, same-day ceramic inlays, a durable, aesthetic, and restorative solution for teeth affected by decay or structural damage. Unlike traditional fillings, ceramic inlays offer superior strength, longevity, and a seamless, natural appearance.
What Are Ceramic Inlays?
Ceramic inlays are custom-made restorations designed to fit precisely within a tooth’s grooves. They mimic a tooth’s natural anatomy while repairing cavities or structural damage, preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible. Ceramic inlays are ideal for teeth that are too weak for fillings but do not require a full crown, offering a conservative yet highly effective solution. Crafted from high-quality ceramic, these restorations blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth, providing both durability and a lifelike look.
This restoration returns function and comfort to the tooth and protects it against further damage while preserving its natural structure.
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“At our practice, we do not cut corners. We only use the most advanced, cutting-edge equipment available.”rn— Dr. Kohani
How It Works
What Are the Steps to Ceramic Inlays?
Step One
If Dr. Kohani discovers moderate decay in a molar or premolar, he will advise using a ceramic inlay or onlay to restore the tooth. For cracks and other damage, call (858) 295-0603 or use our contact form to reach our office.
Step Two
During your appointment, Dr. Kohani will examine your tooth, discuss your options, and remove any decay or damaged tissue. If time permits, he will restore the tooth the same day, and if not, he’ll ask you to return for treatment.
Step Three
Once decay has been eliminated or the damaged tooth is prepared, a digital dental scan is taken to create a unique inlay that will fit perfectly into the damaged part of the tooth.
Step Four
The material is color matched to the tooth being treated, and the digital impression or scan is uploaded to our system for the fabrication of the ceramic inlay.
Step Five
Dr. Kohani will bond the pre-fitted ceramic inlay into your tooth and then polish it to match the reflective properties of the natural tooth.
What Techniques Are Used for Ceramic Inlays?
Unlike traditional fillings, which are placed directly inside the tooth, ceramic inlays are designed with advanced digital technology to ensure a precise fit. We exclusively use digital scanning, eliminating the need for messy and uncomfortable physical impressions. With our advanced CEREC® system, Dr. Kohani can design, craft, and place ceramic inlays in a single visit.
Each ceramic inlay is unique and color matched to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth enamel. Once fabricated, it is securely bonded to the prepared tooth, restoring its strength and function. This technique is ideal for molars and premolars, where chewing forces are the strongest.
To ensure optimal fit, function, and longevity, we use:
- High-Precision Digital Scanning: Captures detailed tooth anatomy for an exact fit.
- Same-Day Inlay Fabrication with CEREC®: Eliminates the need for multiple appointments by crafting inlays in-office.
- Strong Adhesive Bonding: Creates a secure, bacteria-resistant seal to enhance the restoration’s durability.
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Is There Downtime After Receiving a Ceramic Inlay?
Ceramic inlays usually require no downtime. Most patients can resume their routine activities immediately after the procedure. Mild sensitivity to hot or cold is common but usually goes away quickly.
Patients should avoid sticky or hard foods for a few days after the procedure to allow the bonding adhesive to set. Dr. Kohani will provide aftercare instructions to ensure the best long-term results.
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What Results Can I Expect After Receiving a Ceramic Inlay?
A ceramic inlay restores the damaged portion of a tooth while preserving its natural structure, strength, and function. Crafted for a precise fit, it blends seamlessly with the surrounding teeth, providing a durable and aesthetic solution for significant decay or damage.
By sealing the tooth and reinforcing its structure, a ceramic inlay helps prevent further decay and protects against additional wear. With proper care, this long-lasting restoration maintains both function and appearance, supporting a healthier, stronger smile for years to come.
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Can Other Dental Procedures Be Combined With Ceramic Inlays?
Yes, ceramic inlays can be combined with several other dental procedures to improve your oral health and enhance your smile. Some common procedures done together include:
- Professional Teeth Whitening: Many patients whiten their teeth before getting ceramic restorations to get a uniformly brighter smile.
- Dental Bonding or Porcelain Veneers: Patients looking for a full smile makeover may combine inlays with bonding or veneers for a stunning smile transformation.
- Metal Filling Replacement: Molars and premolars benefit most from ceramic inlays, which can be used to replace amalgam fillings. Metal fillings in other teeth can be replaced with composite fillings.
- Treatment for Bruxism (Tooth Grinding): Individuals who grind their teeth can experience damage to their molars and premolars. Treatment for this common condition may include orthodontics or individually fitted nightguards.
Testimonials
Our patients LOVE us, and you will too!
Dr. Kohani changed my smile by using his special veneering technique with minimal alteration of my own teeth. He is an absolute perfectionist and does unbelievable work. No one can tell I have veneers; they just notice my bright and shining smile.
I have gone to Dr. Kohani a few times now and have had nothing but great experiences. I was impressed with the friendly staff that is welcoming and organized. We all know these visits aren’t necessarily ones we look forward to, but Dr. Kohani makes this experience quite pleasant…
I was new to La Jolla, out looking for a dentist and I actually walked into Dr. Kohani’s office by mistake. Well, it was one of the best mistakes I made. My teeth needed a ton of work and Dr. Kohani did a beautiful job. I needed fillings, root canals and veneers. Dr. Kohani was able to do it all…
Ceramic Inlays vs. Composite Fillings
Ceramic inlays provide a stronger, longer-lasting solution for restoring molars and premolars, especially in cases where the damaged area is too large for a composite filling but does not require a full dental crown. Unlike composite fillings, which are applied directly and can wear down over time, ceramic inlays are precision-crafted restorations that bond securely to the tooth, offering superior strength, durability, and resistance to wear and staining. Their custom fit and high-quality material make them a more stable and long-term option for restoring function and aesthetics in back teeth exposed to strong chewing forces.
How Much Do Ceramic Inlays Cost in San Diego?
The cost of ceramic inlays in San Diego varies depending on the extent of the restoration, The cost of ceramic inlays in San Diego varies depending on the extent of the restoration, the complexity of the case, and whether other procedures are needed. Dental insurance may cover part of the cost for ceramic inlays, but coverage varies by plan. At your consultation, Dr. Kohani’s office will provide a detailed estimate and review your financing options to make the treatment more affordable.
Ceramic Inlays in San Diego, CA, With Dr. Kohani
Dr. Kohani offers many restorative dental options, including ceramic inlays and other restorative dental procedures. With decades of experience and a patient-focused approach, Dr. Kohani delivers excellent results for his patients.
Known for his attention to detail, Dr. Kohani combines technical skill and artistry to ensure that his restorations are strong, look great, and blend nicely with his patients’ smiles. Call us at (858) 295-0603 to schedule your San Diego ceramic inlay consultation.
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