Esthetic fillings – Veneers

• Porcelain inlays

Inlays are restorations made of porcelain or gold. They are made in a laboratory and used as a replacement for conventional amalgam restorations or composite resin fillings. Inlays are recommended in cases where teeth are slightly more damaged, as they provide improved protection to teeth against the risk of fracture and make it possible to better withstand the forces of mastication.

The dentist prepares the tooth, takes an impression, sends it to a laboratory and binds the inlay to the tooth at a later appointment. Porcelain inlays are attractive and stick to the tooth. Gold inlays are more fracture-resistant and last longer.

• Composite resin fillings

Composite resin is a white esthetic material used to restore anterior and posterior teeth. Composite resin is used to correct defects caused by caries, fractures or a badly positioned tooth. It is mainly composed of a polymer (plastic) and of very hard and very small inert particles.

• Veneers

Veneers are thin shells of either composite or porcelain material which are bonded to the visible surface of the tooth being treated. They are usually used to:

1. Improve the esthetic appearance of the smile, for example to close a gap between two teeth
2. Align slightly crowded teeth
3. Correct the shape or color of teeth

Source: Ordre des Dentistes Du Québec