Inlays and Onlays
A conservative alternative to dental crowns
These dental restorations are utilised to restore the biting surfaces of teeth, especially when damage or decay is beyond what a simple filling can address yet not severe enough to necessitate a full crown. Inlays and onlays strike an ideal balance between these two restorative measures, ensuring maximum preservation of your natural tooth structure.
What Are Inlays?
Inlays are indirect restorations designed to fit snugly within the grooves of a tooth without extending over the cusps. Crafted in a dental laboratory from detailed impressions of your tooth, inlays are expertly bonded to restore both function and appearance with high precision.
What Are Onlays?
Onlays, similar to inlays, extend over one or more tooth cusps, earning them the nickname “partial crowns.” They are an excellent choice for reinforcing weakened teeth while maintaining both aesthetic appeal and durability.
Advantages of Inlays and Onlays
- Durability and Strength: Constructed from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold, inlays and onlays are engineered to endure the daily demands of chewing and can remain intact for many years with proper care.
- Aesthetic Integration: Porcelain variants can be colour-matched to blend seamlessly with your natural smile.
- Conservative Restoration: Unlike traditional crowns, inlays and onlays require the removal of minimal healthy tooth structure, preserving more of the natural tooth.
The Inlay and Onlay Procedure
The process begins with a thorough examination to assess the suitability of an inlay or onlay for your needs. The affected area is cleaned and prepared if appropriate, and an impression is taken. This impression is used to craft a custom inlay or onlay that conforms precisely to your tooth’s contours. A temporary restoration is placed while the final piece is being manufactured. The permanent restoration is securely bonded and polished to perfection upon your return.
Caring for Your Inlays and Onlays
Maintaining your inlays and onlays is straightforward and mirrors the care of natural teeth:
- Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste.
- Regularly floss to eliminate plaque and food debris.
- Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
- Avoid using your teeth to open packages or perform tasks that may risk damaging the restoration.