Two very popular restorative dental treatments are the inlay and onlay.
Often confused with dental fillings and dental crowns, inlays and onlays are more constructive solutions since they restore the capacity and function of the damaged tooth while ensuring minimal removal of natural tooth.
Castlemaine Smiles Dentist takes pride in its knowledgeable staff capable of educating and guiding you on the right dental plan for your needs. We not only fix your pearly whites but we also make sure to save your natural teeth.
What Is The Difference Between An Inlay And An Onlay?
There is no significant difference between the two treatments. They both have the same functions and raw materials. The only difference is found in their placement or position on the teeth.
An inlay is a smaller treatment that treats decay within the cusps of the tooth. An onlay on the other hand is a bigger restoration. It sits on top of the remaining tooth structure and builds up the tooth’s shape.
An inlay or onlay is recommended when the affected tooth is too damaged for a traditional filling, but damaged enough to require a crown. Aside from saving as much tooth as possible, they are also stronger, last longer than fillings, and are suitable for chewing surfaces.
Benefits Of Inlay And Onlay
The following are the significant advantages of the inlay and onlay:
- More durable compared to fillings and crowns hence they can last longer and provide additional strength and support to damaged teeth.
- Tooth preservation. More of the natural tooth is preserved so the natural structure remains intact.
- Dental fillings can expand relative to the temperature. Inlays and onlays are custom-fit and stay fit in place no matter the temperature.
- They are more resistant to stains compared to the materials used in fillings and crowns.
Procedure
The entire treatment requires only two appointments. The first visit includes the initial analysis of the affected tooth. Your dentist prepares the tooth by removing the decayed area.
Once the tooth is prepared, an impression is made of the tooth’s structure and then sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate the inlay or onlay. A temporary restoration is placed to protect the tooth while waiting for the inlay or onlay.
On your second visit, the temporary restoration is removed and the tooth is cleaned in preparation for the inlay or onlay. Your custom-fabricated inlay or onlay is carefully fitted on the tooth. Your dentist will make sure that you’re comfortable with the restoration and your bite is perfect before cementing it in place.
Premium Inlays And Onlays At Castlemaine Smiles Dentist
Getting the right dental treatment for your needs is of paramount importance. But with the extensive list of dental treatments available in modern dentistry today, choosing the right one can pose a big challenge.
Having the right dentist to discuss your options with you is therefore winning half of the game. At Castlemaine Smiles Dentist, we make sure you are fully educated on all your options.
Call us on (03) 5472 1377 or request your appointment online today!
