Dental Inlays and Onlays
Restoration method to preserve the tooth structure
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth that requires restoration, dental inlays and onlays may be the solution you need. Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that are placed on the surface of a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. Unlike fillings, which are placed directly into the cavity, inlays and onlays are fabricated in a dental laboratory and then bonded to the tooth surface.
Inlay
Onlay
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays are types of restorations that are used to repair teeth that have been damaged or decayed. Inlays are designed to fit within the contours of the tooth, while onlays are designed to cover the entire surface of the tooth. Both types of restorations are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, or composite resin.
When Are Inlays and Onlays Recommended?
Dental inlays and onlays are recommended when the damage or decay to a tooth is too extensive for a filling but not severe enough to require a crown. Inlays and onlays are ideal for repairing teeth that have:
Moderate to severe decay
Worn down or eroded teeth
Large cavities that cannot be repaired with a filling
Fractured or broken cusps (the pointed parts of the tooth)
What Are the Benefits of Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays offer several benefits over other types of dental restorations, including:
Precision fit
Inlays and onlays are custom-made to fit the contours of your tooth perfectly, ensuring a precise fit that is comfortable and functional.
Durability
Inlays and onlays are made from strong, durable materials that are designed to last for many years.
Protection
Inlays and onlays can help to protect the remaining healthy tooth structure and prevent further decay or damage.
Aesthetics
Inlays and onlays are made from tooth-coloured materials, such as porcelain or composite resin, which can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth, providing a natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing restoration.
What Is the Procedure for Getting Inlays and Onlays?
The process of getting inlays and onlays typically requires two visits to your dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the damaged or decayed tooth by removing any decayed or damaged tissue and shaping the tooth to receive the restoration. Next, your dentist will take an impression of the prepared tooth and send it to a dental laboratory, where the custom-made inlay or onlay will be fabricated.
During your second visit, your dentist will bond the inlay or onlay to your tooth using a special adhesive. The restoration will be carefully shaped and polished to ensure a comfortable and natural-looking fit.
