Inlays and Onlays
Protect your Smile with Inlays and Onlays
When you have a large cavity that cannot be effectively restored with a dental filling, Dr. Jonathan J. Golab may recommend an inlay or an onlay.
Inlays and onlays are conservative, minimally invasive treatment alternatives to dental crowns. Onlays require less removal of the tooth structure. Although a very important procedure to save a tooth, a crown requires filing and removing healthy tooth structure.
Differences Between Inlays and Onlays
Both inlays and onlays are fabricated in a lab. However, these tooth restorations have a few differences:
- An inlay is a premade filling that fits into the grooves of the teeth and does not extend over the cusps or chewing surfaces. This is a good way to restore a tooth after it has suffered decay or trauma that does not affect the cusps. We will take an impression of the affected tooth and send it to an offsite lab to create the restoration. Inlays are usually made from composite resin shaded to match the color of your natural teeth. They are also more durable than regular fillings and actually increase the strength of the tooth.
- An onlay is a restorative option that fixes a tooth with decay or damage extending to the cusps. Onlays help to repair more extensive damage than can be fixed by inlays but not so much that a crown is needed. As with inlays, ceramic onlays bond tightly to the tooth and increase the stability and strength of the affected tooth. These are often preferable over a dental crown as it requires no grinding of the natural tooth structure, making it an excellent alternative for those seeking a conservative choice. Many of our patients at Jonathan J. Golab, DDS, PA, love onlays because they can restore damaged teeth with minimum alteration to the natural tooth.
Fitting an Inlay or Onlay
Making and placing an inlay and onlay is the same and requires two dental visits. During your first visit, we will numb you with local anesthesia. We will then prepare the tooth by removing the decayed portion of the tooth. Once the tooth has been cleaned, an impression is taken and sent to a dental lab to create the inlay or onlay.
Inlays and onlays can be made from resin, porcelain, or gold. The inlay or onlay will be placed on your teeth to ensure a proper fit before they are bonded.
When it comes to the health of your teeth, prevention is the key. However, despite good oral hygiene, tooth decay can occur. If you suspect a cavity or fracture in your tooth, call us at (469) 444-2119 in Flower Mound, Texas, today, and we will determine whether you are eligible for an inlay or onlay treatment.
