Restore Your Tooth with Dental Inlays and Onlays
While therapeutic options such as fillings and crowns can address issues such as dental decay and cavities, there are also less invasive options for specific patients called dental inlays and onlays. Here at The Hope Dental Care Centre, Dr. Far, and Gang Wang, and the team provide patience with inlay and onlay restoration offering ceramic inlays and onlays and composite inlays and onlays to repair teeth with minimum intrusion.
The Main Differences between Dental Onlays and Inlays
Most of the time, your dentist may use fillings to address small cavities while using crowns when the hole is more profound or if the tooth has a large fracture that needs to be addressed. But, there can also be situations when a regular filling cannot get the job done, and a dental crown is far too extensive to treat the issue.
That’s when a dentist will use the right dental onlays and inlays to cover those “in-between” issues that either fillers or crowns can’t solve. They cover more than regular fillers but less than dental crowns.
The main difference between onlays and inlays is that inlays are used to fill hollows and cavities within a tooth inside specific areas between the tooth cusps. At the same time, an onlay fills in the holes and incorporates more of the tooth, including the cusps, while not covering the tooth’s entire surface.
Both treatments involve using the same materials, and both essentially serve the same purpose but cover different portions of your tooth, ensuring proper protection from further tooth decay.
How Are Inlays and Onlays Applied?
With inlays, they are moulded and then fitted directly into your tooth’s chewing surface that has damage caused by an injury or decay. Inlays are made using an imprint of your tooth’s impact areas that are sent to a laboratory for manufacturing.
The inlay fits in precisely but will not cover the tooth’s cusps. Inlays can be made of either a composite or porcelain material and are generally more robust than standard fillings.
Onlays are designed to cover areas too big to be treated by standard fillings but not enough to warrant a full crown. They are placed much like crowns using a temporary onlay to stay in place until your permanent onlay is ready. They, too, are made using either composite or porcelain material and are also known as “partial crowns.”
Learn more about the benefits of Inlays and Onlays
To find out more about inlays and onlays to see if they can address your dental concerns, please contact The Hope Dental Care Centre at (343) 803-6333 to schedule your consultation with Drs. Farkhondeh, and Wang. Our office is conveniently located at 500 Hazeldean Rd Suite 107, Kanata, ON.
Inlays & Onlays FAQs
How do inlays and onlays compare to traditional fillings in durability?
Inlays and onlays are typically more durable than traditional composite or amalgam fillings. They are custom-crafted from strong materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold, which makes them resistant to wear and fracture. Traditional fillings are moulded directly inside the tooth during the procedure, which can sometimes weaken the tooth structure over time. In contrast, inlays and onlays are bonded to the tooth surface, strengthening the overall tooth structure. With proper care, inlays and onlays can last several 10 to 30 years, far outlasting most traditional fillings.
Can inlays and onlays help preserve more of my natural tooth structure?
Yes, inlays and onlays are conservative dental restoration options designed to preserve your tooth’s natural structure (as much as possible). Unlike dental crowns, which cover the entire tooth, inlays, and onlays are bonded to specific areas of the tooth. This allows Dr. Farkhondeh to remove only the damaged or decayed portion, leaving the healthy parts intact. Preserving natural tooth structure is essential for maintaining long-term oral health and reducing the likelihood of future dental problems.
Are inlays and onlays stain-resistant compared to traditional fillings?
Yes, inlays and onlays, particularly those made from porcelain or gold, are more resistant to staining than traditional composite fillings. Porcelain is non-porous, making it less likely to absorb pigments from foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, or red wine. Composite fillings, on the other hand, are more susceptible to discoloration over time. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings can help keep your restorations looking their best.
How do inlays and onlays impact tooth sensitivity?
Inlays and onlays can reduce tooth sensitivity by providing better coverage and sealing of the damaged areas of the tooth compared to traditional fillings. Traditional fillings may sometimes leave gaps or inadequate bonding that allows temperature changes to affect the tooth nerve, causing sensitivity. Inlays and onlays are precisely fitted and bonded to the tooth, creating a tight seal that protects against external irritants. This can significantly improve comfort, particularly for patients who experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
Can inlays and onlays repair fractures or cracks in teeth?
Yes, inlays and onlays are effective for repairing teeth with fractures or cracks that do not require a full crown. They provide additional strength and stability by reinforcing the damaged areas of the tooth. Inlays fit within the tooth’s cusps, while onlays extend over one or more cusps, offering broader coverage for larger cracks. By bonding securely to the tooth structure, they help distribute bite forces evenly, reducing the risk of further damage.
Are there specific teeth that are better suited for inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are most commonly used on the back teeth (molars and premolars) because these teeth endure the most biting and chewing forces. However, they can also be applied to other teeth when necessary. They are ideal for cases where a traditional filling would not provide enough support, but a full crown is too extensive. The material and design can be tailored to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing both strength and aesthetics.
How do I care for inlays and onlays to ensure they last a long time?
Caring for inlays and onlays is similar to maintaining your natural teeth. Brush twice daily with fluoridated fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly to remove plaque and food particles. Avoid biting down on hard objects such as ice or pens, as this can damage the restoration. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with Dr. Farkhondeh will help monitor the condition of your inlays and onlays and address any concerns early. With proper care, these restorations can provide long-lasting durability and functionality, making them a valuable investment in oral health.
