Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made fillings that fit into decayed or damaged teeth. Your dentist may recommend inlays and onlays as an alternate solution to fillings or crowns.
What is the difference between inlays and onlays?
Inlays fit inside the cusps or bumps of your tooth, like a composite filling. Onlays are similar but cover more surface area and wrap over at least one edge of the tooth. Crowns are onlays that completely cover all surfaces of a tooth.
How does the inlay/onlay procedure work?
At Spring Street Dental in Cobourg, typically two appointments are required to fit dental inlays or onlays to your teeth.
At your first dental appointment, the old filling or decay is removed and the tooth prepared for the inlay or onlay fitting. An impression is then made of the tooth and the impression is sent to a dental laboratory where a custom-made inlay or onlay is made. At this time, a sealant is placed on the tooth and your second dentist appointment is scheduled.
At your second dental visit, the sealant is removed and your Spring Street dentist ensures a proper fit that will not interfere with your bite. The inlay or onlay is then bonded into the tooth with a strong resin.
What materials are inlays/onlays made of?
Inlays and onlays typically come in porcelain, composite resin or gold. Your Spring Street Dental team will consult with you to determine the most appropriate material choice.
