Silver fillings routinely crack and break as they age. Replacing these defective filings with custom-made porcelain "inlays" is a very good choice. These specially fabricated, tooth colored, porcelain restorations are bonded internally to the tooth. This results in a stronger tooth as compared to one filled with a typical silver filling since the silver material can’t bond to the inside of the tooth.  The custom, laboratory fabricated restoration can be shaped to improve the contour of the tooth and is stronger than a routine filling. A less costly option would be to use composite bonding for aesthetics, but it will not last as long nor is it strong enough for replacing large fillings.

Porcelain inlays are the restoration of choice for replacing larger fillings. Not only do they strengthen teeth but they look great too!