Dental Inlays & Onlays
Dental inlays and onlays are utilized when more than half of a tooth's biting surface is damaged. They provide a stronger and longer-lasting reparative solution compared to traditional fillings.
Dental Inlays and Onlays
in Tinton Falls, NJ
Dental inlays and onlays are available in various materials to strengthen damaged teeth. They are bonded directly onto the teeth using special high-strength resins, which can increase the strength of a tooth by 75 percent. Inlays and onlays can last ten to 30 years, and in cases where the damage to the tooth does not require an entire crown, onlays are a great alternative.
Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin and are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay is similar to a filling and is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth, while an onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, extending out over one or more of the tooth’s cusps.
Gold has traditionally been the material of choice for inlays and onlays. Still, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and color, which can match the natural color of your teeth.
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What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are dental pieces made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin bonded to the tooth’s damaged area. An inlay is similar to a filling and is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth, while an onlay is a more extensive reconstruction that extends over one or more of the tooth’s cusps. Traditionally, gold has been the preferred material for inlays and onlays. Still, porcelain has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its strength and ability to match the natural color of your teeth.
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How are dental inlays and onlays applied?
Dental inlays and onlays are applied in two appointments. During the first visit, the dentist replaces the filling or removes the damaged or decaying area of the tooth and prepares the tooth for the inlay or onlay. An impression of the tooth is made and sent to a lab for fabrication to ensure a proper fit and bite. The dentist then applies a temporary sealant on the tooth and schedules the next appointment.
During the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed, and the dentist checks to ensure the inlay or onlay fits correctly. If the fit is satisfactory, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.
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When should I consider a dental inlay or onlay?
A dental inlay is used to fill grooves in a tooth to restore or repair it after it has been damaged by injury or decay that affects the cusp. Dental inlays are more durable than regular dental fillings made from composite or amalgam, and gold inlays are the most durable.
A dental onlay is used to repair a tooth with more extensive damage affecting the cusp, tips, or biting surface. Onlays require a temporary solution while the final onlay is sent to a laboratory to be formed correctly.
Have Any More Questions?
If you have more questions about dental inlays or onlays, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.
