Dental Inlays and Onlays
Dental inlays and onlays are used to restore a tooth when more than half of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged. Unlike traditional fillings, that can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50 percent, dental inlays and onlays can actually strengthen your tooth by up to 75 percent.
Dental Inlays and Onlays in Rolesville and Raleigh, NC
Offered in many different materials, dental inlays and onlays are bonded to damaged teeth, creating a stronger and healthier surface. Inlays and onlays are bonded directly onto the teeth using special high-strength resins that can increase the strength of a tooth by 75 percent. As a result, they can last ten to 30 years, and in some cases, where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to merit an entire crown, onlays are a great alternative.
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What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay, but extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.
Traditionally, gold has been the material of choice for inlays and onlays. In recent years, however, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and color, which can potentially match the natural color of your teeth.
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How are dental inlays and onlays applied?
Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure. During the first 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 proper fit and bite, an impression of the tooth is made by the dentist and sent to a lab for fabrication. The dentist will then apply a temporary sealant on the tooth and schedule the next appointment.
At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed, and the dentist will ensure that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. If the fit is satisfactory, the inlay or onlay will be 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 to restore or repair a tooth after it sustains harm from injury or decay that affects the cusp of the tooth. Dental inlays are more durable than regular dental fillings made from composite or amalgam, and gold inlays are the most durable.
A dental onlay is used to repair a tooth that has 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 onlays, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.
