Inlays & Onlays![]() Inlays and onlays are conservative, minimally invasive treatment options to dental crowns since they do not require filing down a large amount of enamel. A crown, although a very important procedure to save a tooth, requires the erosion of healthy tooth structures and can increase the risk of tooth fracture. Differences Between Inlays and OnlaysBoth inlays and onlays are fabricated in a lab. However, these tooth restorations have a few differences:
Fitting an Inlay or OnlayThe procedure to make and place an inlay and onlay is the same and requires two dental exams. During your first visit, we will numb you with a local anesthesia. We will then prepare the tooth by removing the decayed portion of the tooth. Since the procedure is noninvasive, we will only remove a very small portion of your tooth. Once the tooth has been cleaned, an impression is taken and sent to a dental lab to fabricate the inlay or onlay. Inlays and onlays can be made from resin, porcelain, or gold material. Gold has previously been the most popular choice although its metallic color is not very aesthetically pleasing. The inlay or onlay will be placed on your teeth to ensure a proper fit before they are bonded with cementum. When it comes to the health of your teeth, prevention is the key. However, in spite of good oral hygiene, if you sustain damage, a dental inlay or onlay can be the best option for you. If you suspect you have a cavity or fracture in your tooth, call us at (469) 444-7919 today and we will determine whether you are eligible to have an inlay or onlay treatment. |