Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are essential for correcting problems with one or multiple teeth. They are a mix of being an alternative to fillings as well as a complete crown. Because of their larger size and their ability to cover an entire surface of the tooth, they are essential for patients who have deep cavities or need larger space for restorative work.
What is an Inlay?
An inlay is a pre-molded filling that often lays on one small area of the tooth, normally on the top in the grooves that can often have fillings. Inlays are essential for people who have had trouble with fillings in the past or who have very deep decay that a typical filling would not be able to handle. An inlay is used to repair a tooth after it has sustained injury or severe decay.
What is an Onlay?
An onlay is larger in size and often covers the entire upper surface of the tooth. Unlike a crown that is essentially a false tooth in its entirety, an onlay is just a smaller portion of tooth that is added to an area that has either broken, cracked or has had a very large filling.
Why are they needed?
Inlays and onlays are ideal for patients who want to restore the overall beauty and appeal of their smile. Unlike fillings that can discolor, shrink and fall out over time, inlays and onlays are permanently cemented onto the tooth where restoration is needed. You will also have the inlay or onlay matched perfectly to your existing teeth, creating a seamless and gorgeous smile that you can feel confident showing off.
What happens during the procedure?
The inlay and onlay procedures are very similar to a crown procedure. You will have the area numbed and then filed down to make room for the new prosthetic. The dentist will clean and remove decay in the tooth. You will then have impressions made that will be sent off to a dental lab which will custom create the inlay or onlay for you. Inlays are manufactured from porcelain or composite resin and they will be matched up to the color of your teeth. You will then return to the office to have it permanently cemented onto the tooth, providing dental restoration while repairing the chewing surfaces. .
The dentist can perform an examination and discuss your options with you. For many, an inlay or onlay is a cost-effective way of restoring their smile without more invasive work. These prosthetics have been used in the dental field for years with great success and continue to be applied to millions of smiles worldwide.
To inquire further about this service please give our office a call and our staff members would be happy to assist you.
