Inlays and Onlays
It’s hard to be completely content when you have problems with your teeth or smile. Fortunately, a variety of restorative options are available to repair dental problems, including dental veneers, crowns, fillings, and bonding. One type of restorative treatment that you may be unaware of is inlays and onlays. If your tooth decay or tooth damage is mild to average, your dentist may advise you to get an inlay or onlay.
What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are typically used in situations where damage is too extensive to repair with dental fillings, or too small for a dental crown. Normally, if you have a small cavity, your dentist would use a dental filling. However, if you have a weak tooth with deep decay, your dentist will probably perform a root canal procedure and place a dental crown over the tooth.
Inlays and Onlays Benefits
- Preserves tooth structure
- Restores damaged or decayed areas
- Easier teeth cleaning due to superior fit
- Alternative to dental crowns
- Better than normal fillings at sealing cavities between teeth
Inlays and onlays are also long-lasting and more resistant to damage than traditional dental fillings. They are stain resistant and help enhance your oral hygiene and health.
How are inlays and onlays applied?
Getting an inlay or onlay is a fairly standard procedure requiring about two dental visits.
If you are getting an inlay or onlay, your dentist would first numb the area. They would then remove the decayed material or an existing filling. Your dentist then shapes and cleans the tooth in preparation to receive an inlay or onlay.
Your dentist will create impressions of your tooth, which are sent to a dental laboratory for the creation of your inlay or onlay. They would then seal the cavity with a temporary filling while you’re waiting for the delivery of your inlay or onlay.
Finally, you’ll return for another appointment. Your dentist will numb the area and remove your temporary filling. They will then cement your inlay or onlay into place and polish it.
Aftercare
Recovering after receiving inlays or onlays just takes a few days. Although your treated teeth are now protected, they can still be affected by problems like gum disease. So be sure that you are keeping up with your routine oral hygiene tasks like regular brushing and flossing.
Considerations for Inlays and Onlays
Getting a dental filling can weaken a natural tooth by up to 50 percent. Inlays and onlays are an alternative in many cases. They actually increase tooth strength by up to 75 percent and can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years if cared for properly.
Your Consultation
We can help you weigh all considerations involved with inlays and onlays. Feel free to contact our office at your earliest convenience to schedule your inlays and onlays consultation.