Preserve Your ToothWith an Inlay or Onlay
Aesthetic, Custom Restorations
What happens if your tooth is too damaged for a filling, but it doesn’t quite need a cap? Instead of choosing the more invasive restoration, we recommend a custom inlay or onlay.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are similar to fillings but are made by our lab. Instead of placing the soft material into your tooth and curing it in place, our lab technician makes it off-site. Depending on the tooth being repaired, inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain or gold.
Two Visitsto Complete
First, we remove the damaged portion of the tooth and take an impression. Then a temporary restoration is placed into your tooth to protect it while the inlay or onlay is made at our lab. About two weeks later, you return, and we place the filling into your tooth with special cement.
Although the inlay/onlay process is a bit more time consuming than a traditional filling, it prevents us from having to remove additional tooth structure for a crown.
FAQ
Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair teeth that have sustained moderate to extensive decay or damage. Unlike traditional fillings, which are applied directly to the cavity, inlays and onlays are crafted in a dental laboratory and then bonded to the tooth. They offer a more durable and aesthetic solution, preserving more of the natural tooth structure compared to crowns.
If your tooth has significant decay or damage that a standard filling can’t adequately restore, an inlay or onlay might be recommended. These restorations are ideal when the damage is too extensive for a filling but not severe enough to require a full crown. They provide a durable and natural-looking solution, helping to maintain the tooth’s strength and appearance.
At Tandara Dental Centre, we offer inlays and onlays made from high-quality materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Porcelain and composite resin are tooth-coloured, providing a natural look, while gold offers exceptional durability. The choice of material depends on factors like the location of the tooth, the extent of damage, and personal preference. Our team will discuss the best option for your specific needs during your consultation.
The process typically involves two visits:
Initial Visit: The damaged portion of the tooth is removed, and an impression is taken. A temporary restoration is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent inlay or onlay is being fabricated.
Final Visit: The custom-made restoration is bonded to the tooth using special dental cement. The fit and bite are checked to ensure comfort and functionality.
The entire procedure is designed to be minimally invasive and comfortable
With proper care, inlays and onlays can last between 10 to 30 years. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing, and attending regular dental check-ups will help ensure their longevity. It’s also advisable to avoid chewing on hard objects and to wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night.
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Do you want to discuss this with us?
From providing preventative check-ups to emergency care, our dentists and team offer outstanding care. If you’d like to find out more about sedation and sleep dentistry please contact our practice today!
