What Are Inlays And Onlays, And Why Would I Need Them?
Posted on 7/7/2020 by Robert Leale
When your tooth sustains serious damage, it may need intensive repair. In these cases, when a filling does not quite cut it, but a crown might be overkill, an inlay or an onlay may be exactly what your tooth needs.
What is the Difference Between an Inlay and an Onlay?
Inlays and onlays may seem interchangeable, but they cover different portions of the tooth. When the indirect filling rests upon one of the cusps (the pointy part of your tooth), then it is considered an onlay. Onlays are also considered partial crowns. When it is placed upon the surface of your tooth (between the points, on the flatter surface of your tooth), however, then it is an inlay.
Placement of Inlays and Onlays
Placing an inlay or an onlay can take up to two appointments to complete. During your first appointment, we will work to carefully remove as much decay from the tooth to prepare it for the onlay or the inlay. Before we begin, we will apply a topical anesthetic to help protect you from experiencing any discomfort during the procedure.
Once we are satisfied that your tooth is ready for the inlay or the onlay, we will take an impression of your tooth. This impression will be sent to our laboratory to create your indirect filling. In the meanwhile, we will place a temporary inlay or onlay over your tooth to help protect it while we wait for your indirect filling to return. Once we have your inlay or your onlay back, we will bond it to your tooth with dental cement and harden it with a special ultraviolet light.
Dental inlays and onlays are often a great choice for our patients. They can help preserve more of your natural tooth, keeping it healthier and stronger overall. They work well in tight spaces and provide a secure fit over the affected tooth. For many of our patients, getting an inlay or an onlay is a smart decision that will prove beneficial in the long term.
To learn more about indirect fillings, or to schedule an appointment at our office, please give us here at Northview Family Dental a call today at (509) 590-1763!
Location
Northview Family Dental 1121 E. Westview Ct. Spokane, WA 99218-1319
Robert Leale DDS, 1121 E. Westview Ct. Spokane, WA 99218 : (509) 590-1763 : northviewfamilydental.com : 9/16/2024 : Related Phrases: dentist Spokane WA :
When your tooth sustains serious damage, it may need intensive repair. In these cases, when a filling does not quite cut it, but a crown might be overkill, an inlay or an onlay may be exactly what your tooth needs.