Inlay & Onlay Restorations: The Superior Solution for Larger Cavities

When a tooth has a large cavity or a significant portion has been damaged by a fracture or a broken filling, a simple direct filling may not be strong enough to provide a durable, long-term solution. Conversely, a full dental crown might be too aggressive, requiring the removal of healthy tooth structure.

Inlay and Onlay restorations represent the perfect intermediate solution. Often referred to as "indirect fillings," these custom-fabricated pieces are precision-crafted in a dental laboratory (or with in-house CAD/CAM technology) to fit perfectly into the prepared tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and integrity.

Understanding the Difference: A Conservative Approach

Our goal is always to preserve as much of your healthy, natural tooth as possible. Inlays and onlays allow us to do just that.

• Inlays: An inlay is a restoration that is fitted and bonded within the cusps (the pointed tips) of a tooth's chewing surface. It is ideal for restoring decay located in the central grooves of a molar or premolar.

• Onlays: An onlay is a more extensive restoration that covers one or more of the tooth's cusps. It is sometimes called a "partial crown" and is used when the damage is more significant, providing strength and protection to the entire biting surface.

Crafted from high-quality dental porcelain or advanced composite resin, these restorations are not only incredibly strong but also perfectly matched to the color of your natural teeth, making them a highly aesthetic choice.

Key Benefits of Inlay & Onlay Restorations:

• Stronger Than Regular Fillings: Fabricated as a single, solid piece, they are far more durable and resistant to chewing forces than traditional fillings that are built up in layers.

• Preserves More Natural Tooth Structure: This is a more conservative treatment than a full crown, as it only requires the removal of the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth, leaving healthy structures intact.

• Long-lasting Solution: Due to their superior materials and precise fit, inlays and onlays provide a durable, well-sealed restoration that can last for many years with proper care.

• Superior Fit and Aesthetics: Custom manufacturing ensures a perfect fit, which helps to seal out bacteria and is easier to clean. The porcelain materials resist staining and mimic the natural translucency of enamel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: Are they better than crowns?

  • A: For teeth with moderate damage, yes. Inlays and onlays are considered a more conservative treatment because they preserve more of your natural tooth compared to a full crown, making them the preferred choice when possible.

• Q: What are they made of?

  • A: They are typically made from high-strength porcelain (ceramic) for the best combination of durability and aesthetics, or sometimes from a special laboratory-grade composite material.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns.