Inlays & OnlaysInlays and onlays are therapeutic approaches used in dentistry when the tooth is too damaged to support a filling material but not excessively damaged to require a crown replacement. They are mostly used in premolars and molars, and the main difference between them is the amount or the size of the portion they cover on the tooth. In the past, they were made out of gold and porcelain; however, ceramic material has garnered popularity in recent procedures. Please visit to consult with our team of professionals at RJ Dental to restore your damaged teeth and reduce your oral discomfort.  When do you need an inlay or onlay?Sometimes a tooth might be required to be restored using a dental cap that encompasses the tooth's entire surface. Still, the damage or fracture may be too severe to support the composite and would compromise the tooth's structure or impart crude opposition to occlusive forces like chewing and biting. In such cases, an indirect restoration technique might be recommended. Inlays are custom-designed to fit the grooves and fissures of the tooth depending on the size and depth of the cavity, while onlays compare only that they are made to cover even the cusps or the entire surface of the tooth. Onlays are preferred if the tooth suffers cuspal fractures or in cases where the remaining tooth anatomy erodes the perimeter walls of the tooth. They are mainly made of gold, porcelain material, composite resin. Procedure for inlay and onlay placementDuring the placement of inlays and onlays, the dentist removes any existing filling on the tooth, and any cavity impacted tissue. The debris is then rinsed off, leaving a hollow cavity on the tooth. The dentist then cleans, dries, and shapes the tooth in preparation for the placement. A mold of the hollow is then taken, and the decision is made on the material to be used. The impression is used to custom make the inlay filling. A temporary filling is then used to seal and prevent the tooth from further damage, bacteria, or sensitivity. After the inlay restoration is made, another appointment is set up to place the inlay. Local anesthesia is administered to reduce discomfort and pain. The temporary filling is then removed, and the inlay is placed without any discomfort. Recovery after the procedure takes a few days. Patients are advised to maintain proper oral hygiene, reduce highly acidic and sugary foods, and have routine checkups with the dentist. Advantages and disadvantages of inlays and onlaysInlays and onlays are extremely durable and strong with exceptional longevity given the proper oral care. They help give the tooth an intrinsic and aesthetic appearance, especially for ceramic inlays that match the shade of the natural tooth. Since they are custom made, they help give dentists a better contour, occlusion, and contact point. However, the cost of an inlay or onlay restoration is higher due to the laboratory custom-making technique. They also require a lengthy process due to the time required to make the molding, considerably to multiple appointments. They help conserve the tooth structures in cases where the only option would be to eliminate the cusps, fissures, and perimeter wall for restoration with a crown. Repairing inlays and onlays are difficult and can bring complications like marginal leakages or breakages. Let us help you improve your oral health and quality of life; visit us at RJ Dental or call us today at (551) 369-2001 and get talking to our professionals. |
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