Dental Inlays vs. Onlays - Why do you need them?

Fillings are often used to restore teeth with mild decay. On the other hand, crowns are ideal when extensive decay or damage reaches a tooth’s pulp chamber. But what happens when dental decay is too significant for teeth fillings but not so extensive that it needs to be repaired with a crown? The dentist may recommend Inlay and Onlay in Richmond Hill, TX, to address the issue.

What are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays are dental restorations that are placed within the cusps of a tooth. They can be made of porcelain, composite, or metal. Onlays are dental restorations placed on a tooth’s chewing surface.

These restorations are made from different materials, including gold, porcelain, and composite resin. They are usually color-matched to your natural teeth.

Inlays and Onlays are strong and durable and can also be matched to the color of your natural teeth so that they are virtually invisible.

If you have damaged or decayed teeth, consult your dentist on whether you need an Onlay or Inlay near you.

How Do Inlays and Onlays Differ?

Both restorations are made from the same material and serve the same function, but they cover different parts of teeth to protect them from decay.

Dental inlays are most commonly used to restore cavities that are located in between the teeth. These cavities are often difficult to clean and can be more prone to developing further decay. Inlays can also be used to repair cracked or chipped teeth.

Dental Onlays typically restore larger areas of tooth decay, such as those that have developed around the edges of a tooth or along the chewing surfaces of molars. Onlays can also replace large fillings that have become worn down over time.

What is the Inlay and Onlay Procedure?

The process starts with the dentist removing any decay or plaque found on the tooth. Next, they will clean and shape the tooth to ensure it has been prepared for the filling. The dentist will then place a temporary restoration until the final one can be placed. The dentist will then cover any exposed areas of your tooth with a strip of metal and cement before polishing it.

When Are the Inlays and Onlays Used?

A dentist can recommend an Inlay and Onlay in Richmond Hill, TX, to address several issues like:

• Cracked teeth

Cracked teeth are a common problem – but fear not! There are treatments for cracked teeth, including both crowns and dental inlays. Dental inlays are more cost-effective than crowns, which makes them perfect for patients who can’t afford the price of a full-on crown.

• Fractured teeth

Fractured teeth are common, but there’s no need to panic. A dentist can use a dental inlay or Onlay to repair the damage and restore your smile. If you have a damaged or worn-down filling, your dentist may suggest using an inlay or Onlay as an alternative to replacing it with another filling. These restorations will help prevent further tooth decay and help keep your smile healthy.

• Decayed teeth

Dental inlays and Onlays restore the small cusps of the teeth, which may have been damaged by decay, trauma, or grinding.

Inlays and Onlays are excellent options for people with decayed teeth who haven’t had any fillings before or want their smile restored quickly without drilling into their jawbone. These restorations can be done at one appointment in just one visit.

• Substitute a filling

The dentist may opt for an Inlay when you have a larger cavity, or the filling is damaged. One upside to inlays is that they are less likely to contract, meaning a restoration will be more successful. Furthermore, they are made of tooth-colored materials that match your natural enamel color. This makes them less noticeable than traditional fillings, which may help improve your smile.

How Long do Inlays and Onlays Last?

Inlays and Onlays are highly durable restorations that can last for decades. They are more resistant to decay than fillings and look natural once made. Many people don’t know that the tooth is an inlay or an Onlay unless you tell them.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Caring Dentistry of Queens for more information about dental Inlays and Onlays and when they are used.