Dental Inlays and Onlays
Dental inlays and onlays restore a tooth when more than half of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged. They are an alternative to traditional fillings, which can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50 percent. In contrast, dental inlays and onlays can strengthen your tooth by up to 75 percent.
Dental Inlays and Onlays in Romeoville, IL
Dental inlays and onlays are available in various materials to strengthen damaged teeth. They are bonded directly onto the teeth using special high-strength resins, increasing the tooth’s strength by up to 75 percent. These restorations can last ten to 30 years and are a great alternative to crowns in cases where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to warrant a full crown.
Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin and are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay is similar to a filling and is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth, while an onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, extending over one or more of the tooth’s cusps.
While gold has traditionally been the material of choice for inlays and onlays, porcelain has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its strength and potential to match the natural color of your teeth.
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How are dental inlays and onlays applied?
The application of inlays and onlays involves two appointments to complete the procedure. During the initial visit, the filling is replaced, or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. To ensure a proper fit and bite, the dentist makes an impression of the tooth, which is then sent to a lab for fabrication. Subsequently, the dentist applies a temporary sealant on the tooth and schedules the next appointment.
During the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed, and the dentist ensures that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. If the fit is satisfactory, the inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.
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When should I consider a dental inlay or onlay?
A dental inlay is used to fill grooves in the tooth and repair them after damage from injury or decay that affects the tooth’s cusp. Dental inlays are more durable than regular fillings made from composite or amalgam, and gold inlays are the most durable.
A dental onlay repairs a tooth with more extensive damage affecting the cusp, tips, or biting surface. Onlays require a temporary solution while the final onlay is sent to a laboratory to be formed correctly.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about dental inlays and onlys, or if you would like to schedule an appointment or contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.
