All About Dental Inlays and Onlays

1. All About Dental Inlays and Onlays Some types of dentistry can seem confusing to patients. However, different methods of dentistry are used based upon oral issues, benefits and preferences. Here, we present information about inlays and onlays, how they differ from fillings and crowns, their superior benefits to other options and the procedure that will help your mouth achieve its perfect smile. A Brief Overview Inlays and onlays, essentially, restore structural integrity to a tooth to serve both as a functional and an aesthetic benefit. Inlays and onlays can also be referred to as “indirect fillings” or “partial crowns”. Inlays and onlays differ from fillings in that fillings can be done if only a small portion of the tooth has been compromised by a cavity. If decay is substantial enough to undermine tooth integrity, an inlay or onlay is chosen. Inlays and onlays are more intensive than a filling but are less intensive than a crown. Crowns require the removal of the healthy portion of a tooth which is the reason onlays are preferred. Inlays and onlays may consist of composite resin, porcelain or gold. Gold can last a longer time; however, porcelain and composite resin match the color of the surrounding tooth and is more aesthetically-pleasing. With good oral hygiene, porcelain and composite resin last a long time and help to protect the tooth from further damage. Inlays Inlays are chosen when a portion of the tooth needing to be restored is more extensive than what can be remedied by a filling. Inlays affect the creviced area of the tooth and does not include the outer cusp. Onlays Onlays are like inlays, but they incorporate the outer cusp of the tooth because of damage to the cusp. Usually, onlays are done when the tooth becomes fractured on the cusp of the tooth or is otherwise compromised. Onlays are also chosen if the entire tooth does not need a crown. The Benefits An inlay or onlay does not require removal of the healthy portion of the tooth to be adhered. Both inlays and onlays are less likely to change in color over time, which adds to their aesthetically-pleasing

2. properties. Teeth are easy to clean with inlays and onlays because the edges of both are made minimally to avoid further tooth decay. Inlays and onlays add strength to damaged teeth. The Procedure Inlays and onlays can be accomplished in two appointments. The damaged area of the tooth is removed and an impression is made of the tooth and the surrounding teeth. This is to ensure a proper fit so that your teeth can still achieve a proper bite. A temporary restoration is used on the tooth to protect it and provide comfort. During the following appointment, either the inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth. Inlays and onlays are excellent options because they both preserve the integrity of the tooth while enhancing both its functional and aesthetic qualities. Through the use of x-rays and expertise, dentists are able to inform their patients whether they are good candidates for either of these procedures which many times are the best solution.