Dental Inlays and Onlays
Dental inlays and onlays repair a tooth when more than half of the tooth's biting surface is damaged. They serve as an alternative to traditional fillings and can strengthen the tooth by up to 75 percent, whereas traditional fillings can weaken the tooth by up to 50 percent.
Dental Inlays and Onlays
Dental inlays and onlays are available in various materials to strengthen and restore damaged teeth. They are bonded onto the teeth using special high-strength resins, increasing the tooth’s strength by up to 75%. They can last for 10 to 30 years and are a great alternative when the damage to the tooth does not require a full crown.
Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin and are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay is similar to a filling and is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is a more extensive reconstruction, extending over one or more of the tooth’s cusps.
While gold has been the traditional material for inlays and onlays, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and ability to match teeth’s natural color.
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What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, like the inlay, extending over one or more of the tooth’s cusps.
Traditionally, gold has been the material of choice for inlays and onlays. In recent years, however, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and color, which can match the natural color of your teeth.
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How are dental inlays and onlays applied?
Dental inlays and onlays are applied in two appointments. During the first visit, the filling is replaced, or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. The dentist will take an impression of the tooth to ensure a proper fit and bite, which is then sent to a lab for fabrication. A temporary sealant is applied to the tooth, and the next appointment is scheduled.
During the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed, and the dentist ensures that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. If the fit is satisfactory, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.
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When should I consider a dental inlay or onlay?
A dental inlay is used to fill grooves in a tooth and restore or repair a tooth after it has been damaged by injury or decay that affects the tooth’s cusp. Dental inlays are more durable than regular dental fillings made from composite or amalgam, and gold inlays are the most durable.
A dental onlay is used to repair a tooth with more extensive damage affecting the cusp, tips, or biting surface. Onlays require a temporary solution while the final onlay is sent to a laboratory to be formed correctly.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about dental inlays and onlys, or if you would like to schedule an appointment or contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.
