Inlays and Onlays The technique of placing dental inlays and onlays is used to restore a decaying or broken tooth to its original state while also strengthening the tooth. Because they do not need the removal of good tooth structure, they are a more conservative alternative to dental crowns. Therefore, inlays and onlays are considered a minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry procedure and are preferred by many dentists and patients since they are less intrusive than other options. Although a crown is not a harmful procedure, it does require the removal of portions of the good tooth structure, increasing the risk of tooth breakage and the necessity for a root canal treatment. Visit us at Hidden Springs Family Dentistry to get more information on inlays and onlays.InlaysDamaged teeth are repaired using inlays, which are sculpted into the chewing surface. They are made by taking an impression of the afflicted areas, which are then submitted to a lab for production. An inlay will fit exactly into the hollow of a tooth, but it will not damage the cusps of the tooth in any way. When the dentist takes an impression of the tooth, he or she makes every effort to match the color of the tooth as nearly as possible to the original. It is hoped that this will make them less visible when placed in the mouth. An inlay can be made of porcelain or a composite material that is tougher and more durable than standard fillings, depending on the situation. As a result, inlays are typically more costly, but they are also more durable. When a filling will not adequately reinforce the surrounding tooth and the cavity necessitates the use of stronger materials to strengthen the tooth, a dentist will pick this alternative. OnlaysOnlays are used to repair decayed or damaged cusps and biting surfaces. An onlay is used when a cavity is too large for normal amalgam fillings or the tooth is weak. An onlay strengthens the tooth while shielding the decayed region. Unlike an inlay, this region includes the cusps and their space. The dentist prepares the tooth like a filling, by drilling out the cavity and cleaning the region after numbing the mouth with an anesthetic. The temporary onlay covers the cavity while the imprint is submitted for a permanent onlay. With an onlay, the tooth structure is retained, whereas a crown may need filing and even cusp removal. They are also porcelain or composite. Onlays are sometimes known as partial crowns since they cover only a piece of the tooth rather than the whole tooth. How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last?One of the primary advantages of inlays and onlays is their durability. An inlay might last anywhere from five to 30 years. Due to a multitude of reasons, dentists cannot guarantee their longevity. If not properly maintained, they might be damaged or fail sooner than intended. One of the most important aspects is how well the patient takes care of their inlays. This involves brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and following any dentist-specific instructions. Follow-up appointments to the dentist are required to ensure the inlays or onlays are stable and healthy. Visit us at Hidden Springs Family Dentistry to get the inlays or onlays. You can call us at (971) 414-3994. |
 Office Hours:Mon: 8 AM - 4 PM Tue: 8 AM - 5 PM Wed: 8 AM - 4 PM Thu: 8 AM - 4 PM Fri: By Appointment Only |
