Inlays & Onlays in Campbellfield
Seeking a strong solution for restoring damaged teeth? Inlays and onlays offer an ideal middle ground between simple fillings and full crowns. These indirect restorations are crafted outside of the mouth in a dental lab and bonded to your tooth during a second appointment.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
- Inlays: These are custom-fitted to repair decay or damage in the ridges of the teeth
- Onlays: Also custom-fitted, onlays are used to repair decay and damage that occurs on more than one tooth cusp (point). Each tooth has four points or cusps.
While traditional fillings are placed directly in the mouth in one visit, inlays are custom-made outside of the mouth and bonded to the tooth, allowing for greater durability and a more natural appearance. Inlays work well for teeth with moderate decay or damage, providing a strong solution for back teeth exposed to the pressure of chewing.
Onlays are an excellent choice when a tooth has extensive damage but doesn’t require the full coverage of a crown. By only covering the affected area, onlays allow for minimal tooth reduction while still providing a durable, aesthetic restoration. This makes onlays an ideal option for patients who would like a conservative solution without compromising on strength.
Both inlays and onlays typically require two appointments. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth and take an impression. This impression is then sent to a dental lab where the restoration is created, which takes about 1-2 weeks. In the meantime, a temporary filling may be placed. At your second appointment, the inlay or onlay is bonded to your tooth, restoring its shape, function, and appearance.
Caring for Your Inlay or Onlay
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, inlays and onlays can last up to 15 years or more, making them a great investment. To care for them, brush, floss, and schedule regular dental checkups so we can monitor the restoration and surrounding teeth. Avoid biting down on hard objects to prolong the life of your restoration.
Looking for a Strong and Aesthetic Solution?
Discover the benefits of inlays and onlays by scheduling a consultation with one of our dentists today.
Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.
