What Are Dental Inlays & Onlays: Procedure & Benefits
If you have dental cavities or damaged teeth, the dentist may recommend a dental crown or a filling to cover the teeth. However, most people are unaware of other options like dental inlays and Onlays.
Teeth fillings repair minor cavities, while the crowns are designed to cover considerable fracture or damage. However, the crown is sometimes too much, and the filling is too small to repair the tooth. In that case, the dentist near you may recommend dental inlays and Onlays. They are the correct size but not as intrusive as the dental crowns.
What are Inlays and Onlays?
A tooth Inlay is used to cover an area in the tooth that is large for a filling. They are fixed between the cusps of the teeth and shaped to fit perfectly within the affected area. Onlays are partial crowns and are used to fill one or more cusps. They are primarily used to correct the larger surface area of the teeth.
How Are the Inlays and Onlays Fixed?
Inlays and Onlays are indirect dental restorations, and they are made at the lab and fixed on the teeth. Our dentist in 91710 will numb the gums, remove the decayed part and clean the teeth to remove debris. The dentist will use dental putty to mold the teeth to create the Inlay or Onlays. A temporary restoration covers the teeth until the next dental appointment. Our dentist removes the temporary Inlay and Onlays during your second appointment and checks the fit. She will then use a resin adhesive to fix the restorations and the teeth polished.
How Are Inlays and Onlays Different From Crowns?
Although the Onlays are partial crowns, they differ from the restorations. For instance, the Onlays do not require reshaping the enamel and therefore preserve your tooth structure. Dental crowns encase the entire tooth while the Onlays over the grooves and cusps of the teeth.
Does the Inlays & Onlays Procedure Hurt?
No, because the anesthesia is used to numb the gums. However, you may feel a pinch when the dentist is injecting the anesthesia. There may also be pressure when the dentist removes the decay, but not pain. Dental sedation can, at times, be used if you suffer from dental phobia or anxiety.
What are the Benefits of Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Dental Inlays and Onlays are two dental treatments that can help restore the function of the teeth. They come with benefits like:
- They are a conservative treatment. These restorations are conservative and help preserve your teeth’ integrity compared to the dental crowns.
- The Inlays and Onlays offer added strength and durability. The dental fillings are often made from composite material, which is not as strong. The inlays and Onlays are primarily made of porcelain (although it comes in different materials), durable and strong. Additionally, they are stain-resistant and do not discolor as quickly as the composite fillings.
- They offer a natural appearance. Because the Inlays and Onlays are made of porcelain, the teeth have a seamless look.
- Improve oral hygiene: Dental Inlays and Onlays will also help improve your oral hygiene by preventing plaque buildup.
- The Inlays and Onlays are cost-effective and are covered by most insurance plans.
- Less expansion. The amalgam fillings tend to expand and contract with temperature variations. Porcelain Inlays and Onlays are stable and do not change shape.
What are the Post-Procedure Care after Inlays and Onlays?
The 48 hours following the inlay and Onlays procedure are critical. It is advisable to avoid hard, sticky, and extreme temperatures. Eat soft and less chewy foods for the first couple of days after the restorations are fixed.
How Long Do the Dental Inlay and Onlays Last?
Dental inlays and Onlays can last between 10 and 30 years, depending on the material and how well you care for the restorations. Visit a dentist near you to examine the quality of the inlays and Onlays.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit or schedule a consultation with Ramona Dentistry of Chino for more information about dental Inlays & Onlays in Chino, CA, and what you can expect during the procedure.