Porcelain Inlays and Onlays Near You
Inlays are used to replace a small area of the tooth’s structure that has been lost to an oral health issue such as tooth decay. Inlays are made to fit inside the tooth. In contrast to filings, which are created within the mouth, inlays and onlays are made outside of the mouth and cemented or bonded in place once fabrication is completed. Whether or not your dentist recommends an inlay or an onlay depends on the amount of damage done to the tooth.
Inlays vs. Onlays
Primarily, inlays and onlays are used on molars and premolars especially when the tooth has been severely damaged and using a filling is a poor option. The difference between onlays and inlays is the position and amount of the tooth’s surface that must be restored. An inlay is applied to the chewing surfaces of the tooth, particularly between the cusps, while the onlays will cover one or more cusps. Onlays are sometimes referred to as partial crowns. If the entire surface of the tooth needs to be restored, a crown will be recommended instead.
Benefits of inlays and onlays include the following:
- increased strength of the tooth
- porcelain is bonded to the tooth’s center – stronger than traditional materials
- superior fit
- will not discolour
- natural-looking results
- easy to maintain and care for – no different than caring for natural teeth
If the weakened or missing tooth structure indicates the use of inlays or onlays, your Cranbrook dentist will discuss the best materials to use and the varied, associated costs. Materials vary in esthetics and function. Although porcelain is more aesthetic, it may fracture if a patient grinds their teeth or has misaligned teeth and potentially traumatic occlusion. If colour is not a concern, gold might be used. Resin-based materials are often recommended to those who grind their teeth or have misalignment issues. Zirconia combines strength and esthetics.
To receive an inlay or onlay there are a few steps that will be carried out leading up to the procedure. Both procedures require two appointments with your Cranbrook dentist. Preparation for the procedure is done on the first appointment and cementation during the second appointment.
During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the affected tooth and an impression will be taken of the teeth for precision fabrication of the inlay or onlay. A temporary restoration is fitted to protect the affected tooth from exposure, while the inlay or onlay is being made. During the second visit, the temporary restoration is removed and the final inlay or onlay is placed in or on the tooth.
Porcelain inlays and onlays are preferable over traditional fillings due to their durability, strength, and ability to blend in with natural teeth. The strength of the porcelain helps reinforce the structure of the tooth and can help protect it from requiring further dental work if good oral hygiene is practiced. If you have any questions about this procedure, contact our Cranbrook dental clinic today!