What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are alternatives to traditional dental crowns or fillings, designed to repair teeth with damage or decay. These cosmetic restorations provide strength and resilience while delivering aesthetic results. A consultation with your trusted team at High Street Dentistry will help you determine if an inlay or an onlay is right for you.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are dental restorations we typically use to repair back teeth with damaged chewing surfaces resulting from tooth decay, breaks, fractures, or old fillings. They are recommended if there is too much damage to repair using a dental filling but not enough damage to require the use of a dental crown. A dental inlay or onlay is directly bonded to a damaged tooth, strengthening it and fortifying its structure.
Inlays, sometimes known as direct fillings, are similar to regular dental fillings, except they usually repair larger cavities. Onlays, on the other hand, are called partial crowns. They are conservative restorations because they require the removal of a minimal amount of tooth structure. While a dental crown encases the entire visible surface of a damaged tooth, an onlay covers the chewing surfaces along with one or more of its cusps.
What Are the Materials Used for Inlays and Onlays?
At High Street Dentistry, we offer inlays and onlays in gold, composite resin, and porcelain. Depending on the material used, we can closely color and texture-match your dental restoration to your natural tooth enamel for a seamless smile. Inlays and onlays are strong and durable, potentially lasting 30 years or even a lifetime with proper dental care!
What Is the Inlay and Onlay Placement Procedure?
We will first administer a local anesthetic to numb the area for your comfort. Next, we will remove any damaged portions of the tooth structure then clean and shape the space. We will take impressions of your mouth to send to our dental laboratory for fabrication. A temporary filling will protect your tooth as your restoration is being prepared.
When your inlay or onlay is ready, you’ll return to our office. We’ll ensure it fits perfectly over your tooth’s biting surfaces and cement it in place. We’ll use a curing light to help harden the bond.
Inlays and Onlays Near Me
Visit High Street Dentistry in Jefferson City, MO, to learn more about restoring damaged teeth using inlays or onlays. Our dedicated team is committed to providing our valued patients with the highest level of care and service. Call us and schedule your appointment today!