Porcelain fillings are also
called porcelain inlays or onlays.
Onlays are partial crowns
that cover the biting surface of a tooth, giving it shape and
strength. Inlays are designed to fill in the space that a cavity
or old filling creates. By using porcelain inlays or onlays, your
dentist can strengthen and repair your tooth while holding it
together; retaining as much of the natural structure and colour of
your tooth as possible.
Porcelain fillings are
indirect fillings, as opposed to metal amalgam and composite
fillings that are direct fillings. Indirect fillings must be sent
in to the laboratory because they are custom made for your teeth
and are made of porcelain ceramics. (Direct fillings are put
directly into the tooth without laboratoy involvement)
Another difference between
porcelain fillings and other fillings is that the dentist will
permanently bond the porcelain fillings to your teeth, and they
are also custom made for your specific tooth and cavity. This
means that your porcelain filling will be stronger and last longer
than fillings made of other materials.