Restorative dentistry has come a long way over the years and there are now several effective ways to repair decayed teeth. In today’s post, we are going to concentrate on two similar types of restorations: dental inlays and onlays.
Where possible, an inlay or an onlay can be a less-invasive substitute for a complete crown and either one is usually more affordable than a porcelain crown procedure.
Inlays/onlays are “indirect fillings,” meaning that they are produced in a lab and placed whole on the tooth. A traditional “direct filling” is applied to the tooth while the material is malleable and then shaped by the dentist.
An inlay is used to correct the surface of a damaged tooth, usually to fill a small cavity or a natural pit that is at risk for decay.
Typically porcelain or composite resin are used for inlays; these materials are substantial and look very natural because the color can be matched specifically to the surrounding teeth. An inlay is precisely fitted to your tooth and looks, feels, and functions like the previous tooth.
An onlay covers a larger part of the tooth. Because they cover such a large area of the tooth, they are often referred to as partial crowns. Onlays are often applied to the biting surface of the tooth. Just like inlays, they are specifically fitted to the damaged part of the tooth. Composite resin and porcelain are also the main materials used to create an onlay. As mentioned before, inlays and onlays serve an important role in restorative and cosmetic dentistry.
At Smileology, we provide first-rate dental care including inlays and onlays. If you have one or more teeth that have a cavity, crack, or excessive wear, make an appointment today.
CONTACT SMILEOLOGY (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):
4400 E HIGHWAY 20 STE 101
NICEVILLE, FL 32578
850-331-339212273 EMERALD COAST PKWY W STE 117
MIRAMAR BEACH, FL 32550
850-424-78871900 SOUTH FERDON BLVD #170
CRESTVIEW, FL 32536
850-897-4488
