Filling, Crown, Inlay: Which One’s Right For You?
When it comes to repairing damaged or decayed teeth, you have more options than ever before. From a simple filling to a custom-designed inlay, onlay, or crown, each solution is tailored to restore your tooth’s strength, function, and appearance. At NYC Smile Spa on the Upper East Side, we offer a range of restorative treatments to meet your unique needs while prioritizing your health and comfort.
Keep reading to learn more about the differences between fillings, inlays, onlays, and crowns—and how to choose the right solution for your smile.
Fillings: The First Line of Defense
Fillings are a common and effective way to treat small areas of decay. At NYC Smile Spa, we use bonded, tooth-colored materials that blend with your natural teeth. These fillings not only restore your tooth’s appearance but also strengthen the remaining structure without the risk of expanding or contracting with temperature changes, as metal fillings can. The result? Long-lasting, safe, and virtually invisible repairs.
Best for: Small to medium cavities
Advantages: Quick, minimally invasive, and aesthetically pleasing
Porcelain Inlays and Onlays: Strength and Precision
When a tooth has more extensive damage but doesn’t require a full crown, an inlay or onlay is a great option. We design these custom restorations to fit your tooth precisely, preserving as much of the natural tooth as possible.
Inlays: Fit within the cusps of the tooth and are used to repair damage in the center
Onlays: Cover one or more cusps, making them suitable for more substantial damage
We make inlays and onlays from durable porcelain and match the color closely to natural teeth. We bond inlays and onlays to teeth, providing additional strength and protection.
Best for: Moderate damage or replacing large, older fillings
Advantages: Long lasting, natural looking, and less invasive than crowns
Crowns: Comprehensive Coverage
For complete protection when a tooth is severely damaged or weakened, a crown is like a cap that fits over the entire tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Made from materials like porcelain, crowns are highly durable and designed to last for years.
Best for: Extensive decay, fractures, or after root canal therapy
Advantages: Full coverage, restores function, and prevents further damage
Choosing the Right Option for You
Every tooth is unique, and so is the care it needs. During your consultation, our experienced team will carefully assess your tooth and discuss your options. Whether you need a simple filling or a more advanced restoration, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
If you have questions or need to schedule an appointment, please contact our dental office located on the Upper East Side. At NYC Smile Spa, we’re committed to helping you maintain a strong, healthy, and beautiful smile.
