Inlays & Onlays in Millwoods
Inlays & Onlays Near You
In cases where a tooth suffers damage that is too extensive for a simple filling, but not severe enough to require a full-coverage dental crown, the best option may be an inlay or onlay. Both inlays and onlays are classified as ‘indirect fillings’, which means they are created outside the mouth (in a dental lab) and then bonded to the tooth. This is in contrast to a ‘direct filling’, which is applied in the mouth, directly to the cavity in one visit.
What are Inlays and Onlays?
We provide inlays and onlays in Millwoods, which offer a stronger, long-lasting restorative solution to tooth decay or similar damage. These restorations are beneficial from both an aesthetic and functional point of view. An inlay fits within the little points of a premolar or molar tooth. An onlay covers one or more of these little points. These procedures are done to save the tooth and avoid the use of a dental crown. By getting an inlay or onlay, you are able to preserve the original structure of the affected tooth.
Receiving dental inlays and dental onlays near you in Millwoods involves an initial consultation to determine if you are a candidate. Inlays and onlays are created from durable materials that can last up to 30 years. This allows for the preservation of the tooth and prevents the need for further treatments in the future.
The Procedure
If you’re looking to receive inlays and onlays near you, the procedure is completed within two dental visits.
During your initial visit, your Millwoods dentist will prepare the affected tooth for placement of the inlay or onlay. This involves a dentist taking an impression of the tooth and then sending it to a dental laboratory, where the restoration is fabricated.
Inlays and onlays can be made from a variety of materials such as gold, porcelain or resin. The difference between them is in the appearance of the finished restoration. A fitted, temporary restoration will be placed on the affected tooth until the final restoration can be created. This is done to protect the tooth while the final restoration is being fabricated.
Your dentist might discuss with you the best type of material to use. If aesthetics are not a concern of yours, gold is the best option. Porcelain veneers offers the best aesthetics and is often used as a restoration in the “smile line” areas of the mouth. Resin materials may be the best option for people who suffer from teeth grinding or those with a misaligned bite.
During your second visit, the temporary restoration is removed and your permanent inlay or onlay is cemented in place.
They are extremely stable restorations and help reinforce the strength of the tooth. dentist will check the fit of the inlay or onlay to ensure a smooth fit with tight adjacent contacts. dentist checks your bite to ensure issues relating to your occlusion are not present. Once your inlay or onlay is fitted, your dentist will bond it onto the tooth and polish it.
Onlays vs. Dental Crowns
The procedure of getting an onlay is similar to that of getting a crown. However, the main difference between the tooth depends on the amount of the tooth’s structure that is missing. When getting a crown, the tooth undergoes imminent reshaping for the crown to fit. On the other hand, onlays do not require the same extensive reshaping process. This offers a more conservative approach while preserving as much of the tooth structure as possible.
While these procedures help restore and save your teeth from possible extraction and complex treatments, you still have to do your part and practice proper dental care to preserve your teeth. Brush and floss regularly. Incorporate a healthy amount of calcium into your diet, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Looking to receive onlays or inlays near Millwoods? Schedule a consultation with us. We are happy to provide both dental inlays and dental onlays near you.
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FAQ's
What is the purpose of an inlay/onlay?
Inlays and onlays are meant to repair a tooth with moderate decay or damage. Inlays and onlays are a durable restoration alternative to fillings and help conserve tooth structure.
Can you eat after an inlay?
Yes, once the numbness has worn off. If you have had a temporary inlay placed by your dentist, we recommend avoiding hard or sticky foods for 24 hours.
What is the life expectancy of a dental inlay?
With good care, a dental inlay can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. This will depend on the inlay material and the patient’s oral hygiene habits.
What is the most common failure of inlay/onlay?
The most common failure is debonding or having the inlay become loose. This can be caused by a poor fit, bite pressure, and adhesive failure.
What does a tooth inlay look like?
A tooth inlay looks a lot like a small, custom-made piece that fits perfectly in the grooves of a tooth. Typically made from gold or tooth-coloured ceramic.
How long does a dental inlay or onlay take?
The process for placing a dental inlay or onlay usually happens in two visits. One visit to prepare the tooth and take impressions, and then the dental team will fabricate the inlay or onlay restoration and fit it at the second visit.