Dental Inlays and Onlays
Dental inlays and onlays are used when more than half of your tooth’s biting surface is damaged. They are an alternative to traditional fillings that can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to fifty percent.
Dental Inlays and Onlays in Bartow, FL
Inlays and onlays are bonded directly onto the teeth using special high-strength resins that can actually increase the strength of a tooth by 75 percent. As a result, they can last ten to thirty 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. The staff at Peak Dental in Bartow, FL are experts in dental inlays and onlays. Schedule a consultation today to find out if this service is right for you.
Schedule Online
-
What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are dental restorations made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. These pieces 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. On the other hand, an onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay, but extending out over one or more of the tooth’s cusps.
-
How are dental inlays and onlays applied?
Dental inlays and onlays are applied in two appointments. During the first visit, the damaged or decayed area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. An impression of the tooth is taken and sent to a lab for fabrication to ensure a proper fit and bite. The dentist will apply a temporary sealant on the tooth and schedule the next appointment.
At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed, and the dentist checks the fit of the inlay or onlay. If the fit is satisfactory, the inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.
-
When should I consider a dental inlay or onlay?
A dental inlay fills grooves in the tooth to restore or repair it after it sustains damage from injury or decay that affects the cusp. 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 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 any questions about dental inlays and onlays please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.
