Onlay and inlay restorations are custom made fillings made of composite material, gold, or porcelain. Porcelain onlays/inlays are popular because they most closely resemble your natural tooth. An onlay is sometimes referred to as a partial crown and covers one or more of the chewing cusps on the biting surface of the involved tooth. Inlays are generally smaller restorations than onlays and are used to replace a smaller area of affected tooth structure that does not include the chewing cusps. Inlays are an ideal alternative to conventional silver and composite fillings. Onlays and inlays are made by a professional dental laboratory and are permanently cemented onto the tooth by your dentist.
Onlays and inlays can be utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by tooth decay or trauma. Onlays and inlays are an ideal alternative to crowns (caps) because less natural tooth structure is removed in the preparation. As with most dental restorations, onlays and inlays are not always permanent and may someday require replacement. They are highly durable and will last many years, giving you a long lasting treatment result.
Reasons for Onlay & Inlay Restorations:
What does getting an onlay/inlay involve?
An onlay or inlay procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate impressions (molds) that will be used to create your custom onlay/inlay and a temporary restoration.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will remove any decay and/or old filling materials. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared, shaping the surface to properly fit an onlay/inlay restoration. A temporary filling will be applied to protect the tooth while your onlay/inlay restoration is made by a dental laboratory.
At your second appointment, your new restoration will be carefully and precisely cemented into place. A few adjustments may be necessary to ensure a proper fit and a comfortable bite.
You will receive care instruction at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, a proper diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new onlay/inlay restoration.