Precision Restorations for Damaged Teeth
Inlays and onlays are precision dental restorations designed to repair teeth that are too damaged for traditional fillings but don’t require a full crown. These restorations provide a solution that preserves more of the natural tooth structure while offering strength and durability. Whether you have moderate tooth decay or a damaged tooth that needs extra support, inlays and onlays could be the ideal treatment. Book an appointment with us at Lucas Dental in the South Plympton area and we can create a treatment plan that works for you.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Dental Inlay Benefits
An inlay is a custom-made restoration that fits snugly within the grooves of a tooth’s chewing surface, without covering the edges. Inlays are typically used when a tooth has a cavity or damage that doesn’t extend to the outer edges of the tooth. They’re usually made from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold and are bonded to the tooth to provide a durable and natural-looking repair. If you’re looking into porcelain inlay tooth restorations, book into see one of our friendly staff members today and we can talk you through your options.
Dental Onlay Benefits
An onlay is similar to an inlay but covers one or more of the tooth’s edges. At Lucas Dental we use this technique for more extensive damage that affects a larger portion of the tooth’s surface, but without needing a full crown. Onlays are sometimes referred to as “partial crowns” because they provide coverage and protection for teeth that need more than a filling but less than a crown. Like inlays, onlays are made from strong materials such as porcelain or composite, which blend seamlessly with the natural tooth. Composite onlays provide a stable foundation to support your jaw and teeth.
Inlay Vs Onlay
While both inlays and onlays are used for tooth restoration, the main difference is the extent of the coverage. Inlays are used for smaller areas of decay or damage confined to the inner part of the tooth, while onlays cover a larger area, including one or more edges. one of our friendly staff members will recommend the best option based on the specific condition and location of the damage. You can book a tooth restoration appointment at Lucas Dental .
When Do You Need an Inlay or Onlay?
Alternative to Fillings and Crowns
Inlays and onlays are excellent alternatives to traditional fillings and crowns. They are ideal for teeth that need more support than a filling can provide but don’t require the full coverage of a crown. This makes them a less invasive option that preserves more of the natural tooth structure while providing the necessary strength and protection.
Treating Moderate Tooth Decay or Damage
Inlays and onlays are ideal for treating moderate tooth decay or damage. At Lucas Dental we recommended them in cases where the tooth has suffered decay or fractures that compromise its structure but do not extend to the root. These restorations help maintain the tooth’s integrity and function, which prevents further damage and the potential need for more invasive and expensive treatments like root canals or extractions.
The Procedure for Inlays and Onlays
Preparing the Tooth
The first step in the dental inlay procedure or onlay placement is to prepare the tooth. This involves one of our friendly staff members cleaning out the decayed or damaged area and shaping the tooth to make sure it’s a perfect fit for the inlay or onlay. one of our friendly staff members will numb the area to dull any discomfort during this process, similar to how a traditional filling is prepared.
Taking Impressions
After the tooth is prepared, one of our friendly staff members will take an impression of the tooth. This impression is used to create a custom inlay or onlay to match the exact shape and size of your tooth. The material used for the restoration—whether it’s porcelain, composite, or gold—will be selected based on your needs, preferences and a consultation with the team at Lucas Dental. A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth until the final restoration is ready.
Tooth Damage Repair
Once your custom inlay or onlay is ready, one of our friendly staff members will remove the temporary filling and carefully bond the inlay or onlay to the tooth using a strong dental adhesive. The restoration is then polished and adjusted to ensure a comfortable bite and natural appearance. This final step restores the tooth’s strength, functionality, and appearance. To book in for a restoration procedure at Lucas Dental click .
Benefits of Dental Inlays and Onlays
Aesthetic and Functional Advantages
Inlays and onlays offer significant appearance and functional advantages. Made from tooth-coloured materials like porcelain or composite resin, they blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible. They also provide a strong and stable restoration that can cope with the forces of chewing, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional performance.
Preserving More of the Natural Tooth
One of the main benefits of choosing inlays and onlays over crowns is that they are less invasive. They require less removal of the natural tooth structure, allowing us to preserve more of your original tooth in the restoration. This approach maintains the integrity of your tooth but also provides a long-lasting solution that supports your overall oral health.
Durability and Strength
Inlays and onlays are very durable and can last many years with proper care. They are designed to strengthen the tooth by reinforcing its structure and are more resistant to damage than traditional fillings. This makes them a good choice for restoring teeth that have been weakened by decay or damage. Book an appointment at Lucas Dental to discuss your tooth restoration options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
Are inlays and onlays better than traditional fillings?
How long do inlays and onlays last?
Restore Your Tooth with Inlays or Onlays
If you have mild to moderate tooth decay or damage, consider inlays and onlays as a restorative option. It preserves your natural tooth structure and gives long-lasting results.
Schedule an appointment at Lucas Dental today to learn more about how these restorations can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.