What are Inlays and Onlays?
An inlay as well as an onlay can restore your smile and improve your appearance. These restorations are custom-fitted to your smile so that they feel completely comfortable. The inlay sits inside the cusps of a tooth while the onlay sits over top of the tooth itself. Inlays and onlays can last for decades without needing special care or treatment.
Why are Inlays and Onlays needed?
Inlays and onlays may be needed if you’re looking to replace older fillings or would like to restore an area that is decayed in a tooth. It is not uncommon for our patients to want to replace older amalgam fillings with an inlay or onlay. These restorations are often a happy medium between a filling and a full dental crown. They can even be helpful if your tooth has broken just enough to warrant a smaller restoration.
Who is a candidate for Inlays and Onlays?
We can examine your teeth to determine if you might need an Inlay and Onlay. If you require this particular type of restoration, we recommend having it placed as soon as possible. This can help to prevent further damage to the tooth. These restorations are a great alternative to fillings and just as restorative to your teeth.
What happens during the procedure for Inlays and Onlays?
We will start by removing the decay and old filling material from the tooth. We then take careful impressions of the teeth and use them to make the inlay or onlay. We then have you come back into the office after about a week or two to have the inlay or onlay placed. Its fit is adjusted to ensure that the bite is as comfortable as possible. You are then ready to leave the office with a gorgeous new restoration that you can feel confident in showing off. Your inlay or onlay will last for years with the proper care.
If you would like to come into the office for either inlays or onlays, call us now to speak with one of our helpful staff members.
Want to schedule an appointment?
