Inlays And Onlays - Caringbahdental

Among restorative dentistry option are inlays and onlays. Just as the other restorative dentistry treatments, inlays and onlays can effectively restore your teeth’s bite, function, and beauty. Read on to learn more about inlays and onlays.

What Are Inlays And Onlays?

An inlay is a smaller treatment than an onlay. An inlay is placed within the cusps of a damaged tooth. An onlay, on the other hand, is bonded on the top of the affected tooth and restores natural tooth structure.

Inlays and onlays are often confused with dental fillings and dental crowns. Although the three are quite similar in their goal of restoring teeth, they still have significant differences. Inlays, onlays, dental fillings, and dental crowns are used depending on the severity of the dental issue.

Inlays and onlays are used when the target tooth is too damaged for a dental filling to treat, but not damaged enough to need a dental crown.

Of the three, inlays and onlays are the least destructive as the treatment involves minimal removal of tooth enamel. They are also proven to last longer than fillings and are better for chewing.

Benefits Of Inlays And Onlays

Inlays and onlays are known for their benefits such as:

Minimal removal of tooth enamel
Durable and last longer than traditional tooth fillings
Better for chewing
Stay in place and do not move around, unlike tooth fillings, when exposed to thermal changes in the mouth
More resistant to stains from coffee, tea, cigarettes, etc. as compared to other dental restorations

Inlays And Onlays Procedure

Getting your inlays/onlays only takes two appointments. Once your dentist has established that you’re an ideal candidate for the procedure, the process commences.

The first appointment includes the evaluation and preparation of the damaged tooth. The target tooth is thoroughly cleaned and all decayed parts are removed. An impression of the tooth is sent to the laboratory for fabrication of the inlay/onlay. A temporary restoration is placed on the tooth to protect it.

On your second appointment, the fabricated inlay or onlay is fitted in place. Your dentist will make sure that you ae comfortable before cementing it permanently in place.