inlays & onlays
About Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are dental restorations used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. Inlays are custom-made fillings that fit within the contours of the tooth, while onlays cover a larger area, including one or more tooth cusps. They are usually made from durable materials such as porcelain, gold, or composite resins. These restorations are created in a dental laboratory and then bonded to the tooth surface, providing a strong and aesthetically pleasing solution for preserving tooth structure and function.
Steps of Inlays & Onlays
- Tooth preparation: Dentist numbs tooth, removes decay/damage, shapes it for inlay/onlay fit.
- Impression: Dental putty/digital scan captures precise tooth shape/size for accurate restoration.
- Temporary restoration: Protects tooth while lab creates custom inlay/onlay.
- Custom fabrication: Lab uses impression to craft restoration with advanced techniques/materials.
- Bonding and final placement: Dentist bonds/restores final restoration, makes adjustments, polishes for natural appearance.
Advantages of Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer several advantages in dental restorations. They provide durable and long-lasting solutions for repairing damaged or decayed teeth. These indirect restorations preserve more of the natural tooth structure compared to traditional fillings. Inlays and onlays are custom-made for a precise fit, resulting in excellent aesthetics and functionality. They are resistant to staining and offer superior strength. Additionally, these restorations can reinforce weakened teeth and provide a conservative alternative to dental crowns.
