Inlays & Onlays
Today, inlays are still used in the same situations, but the inlays can be made of a tooth-colored material such as ceramic/porcelain or special dental composite. Defective or unsightly “fillings” can be replaced by tooth-colored inlays and bonded to the tooth. This bonding process may actually improve the strength of the tooth and help seal the inlay to the tooth.
Onlays also fit inside the tooth, but extend onto the chewing surface of a back tooth to replace one or more cusps.
Inlays & Onlays
Dental inlays and onlays are some of the strongest and most lifelike dental restorations available. After your mouth has been anesthetized, we prepare the tooth in much the same way we would for a standard filling. When the tooth has been prepared to our satisfaction, an impression is made and sent to a dental lab. You will usually be required to wear a temporary filling until the restoration is fabricated. With proper care, your inlay or onlay will increase your overall health and instill confidence for years to come.
Decayed teeth may require an inlay to restore strength and health to the natural tooth structure. The decayed portion of the tooth is removed from the sound tooth structure. An inlay is fabricated to match the look and feel of your natural teeth. This restoration often resembles a puzzle piece. In most cases the restoration will completely blend into the natural tooth structure.
With proper care, your new crown will increase your overall health and instill confidence for years to come.
