Inlays & Onlays in Millwoods
When a tooth has more damage than a small filling can repair, but does not need a full crown, an inlay or onlay may be recommended. These restorations can help rebuild the damaged area while preserving more natural tooth structure than a crown in suitable cases.
At Dental Elements, we assess your tooth, bite, and amount of remaining structure before recommending an inlay or onlay. This helps us decide whether this type of restoration is appropriate or whether another treatment would better support the tooth.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations used to repair back teeth affected by decay, cracks, wear, or old filling damage. They are made outside the mouth and then bonded or cemented to the tooth.
An inlay fits within the grooves of a tooth and does not cover the cusps. An onlay covers one or more cusps when the damaged area is larger. Both options may help restore chewing function and protect the remaining tooth structure.
Inlays and onlays may be made from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold. The right material depends on the tooth location, bite pressure, appearance goals, and the dentist’s recommendation.
When Do You Need Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays may be considered when a tooth needs more support than a regular filling but does not need full crown coverage.
They may be recommended for:
- Moderate Tooth Decay: An inlay or onlay may restore a tooth when the damaged area is too large for a small filling.
- Worn Tooth Structure: These restorations may help rebuild areas affected by wear.
- Cracked or Weakened Teeth: An onlay may help protect a tooth when one or more cusps are weakened.
- Large Filling Replacement: An inlay or onlay may replace an older filling when enough healthy tooth remains.
- Back Tooth Repair: These restorations are often used on premolars and molars that handle chewing pressure.
Not every damaged tooth is suitable for an inlay or onlay. A crown, filling, root canal, or extraction may be recommended depending on the condition of the tooth.
What Happens During Inlays and Onlays?
Treatment usually takes more than one visit, depending on the material used and how the restoration is made. During treatment, we take the following steps:
- Examining the Tooth: We check the tooth, gums, bite, and X-rays to confirm whether an inlay or onlay is suitable.
- Removing Damage: We remove decay, damaged structure, or an old restoration if needed.
- Preparing the Tooth: We shape the tooth so the restoration can fit properly.
- Taking Impressions or Scans: We take a mould or digital scan so the inlay or onlay can be custom-made.
- Placing Temporary Protection: We may place a temporary restoration while the final one is being made.
- Checking the Fit: We check the final inlay or onlay for fit, shape, bite, and comfort.
- Bonding the Restoration: We bond or cement the restoration to the tooth.
- Polishing and Adjusting: We polish the restoration and make any needed bite adjustments.
After treatment, the tooth may feel slightly sensitive for a short time. If sensitivity, pain, or bite discomfort does not improve, you should contact us.
Restore and Protect Your Tooth
The right restoration depends on the size of the damaged area, the strength of the remaining tooth, and how the tooth fits with your bite. At Dental Elements, we provide careful assessment and clear guidance before recommending restorative treatment. Our team can explain your options and help you choose a treatment plan that supports your comfort, function, and oral health.
Call or visit us today to schedule an appointment.
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FAQ's
What is the purpose of an inlay or onlay?
An inlay or onlay is used to repair a tooth with moderate decay, wear, cracks, or damage when a regular filling may not provide enough support and a full crown may not be needed.
Can you eat after an inlay or onlay?
You should wait until the numbness wears off before eating. If you have a temporary restoration, you may be asked to avoid hard or sticky foods until the final inlay or onlay is placed.
How long does a dental inlay last?
A dental inlay can last for many years with proper care. Its lifespan depends on the material, bite pressure, oral hygiene, diet, and regular dental visits.
What can cause an inlay or onlay to fail?
An inlay or onlay may loosen, crack, wear, or develop decay around the edges. Bite pressure, poor fit, grinding, and oral hygiene can affect how long it lasts.
What does a tooth inlay look like?
A tooth inlay looks like a small custom restoration that fits into the prepared area of a tooth. It may be tooth-coloured or metal, depending on the material used.
How long does an inlay or onlay take?
Inlays and onlays often take two visits. The first visit prepares the tooth and takes impressions or scans. The second visit places and adjusts the final restoration.