There are many ways to damage a tooth, and when it happens, it’s important to get it repaired right away. However, if you break a tooth, you don’t always need a crown or cap, and those options can be incredibly noticeable and ruin your smile. Other tooth restoration options work in some situations; they are not more obvious than a crown. Inlays and onlays fix tooth damage that isn’t quite severe enough to necessitate a crown. Not only are they a better option in some cases, but people will only be able to tell you to have them.
A porcelain inlay or onlay is an excellent way to fix and preserve a damaged tooth, and they take less time and are generally less expensive than crowns to boot. See us, your local dentist near you, about dental inlays and onlays treatment today.
What Exactly Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays are less common than crowns or filling, but they serve practically the same purpose. When you suffer damage to the top of your tooth, you can use either an inlay or onlay to fix it.
Inlays are a type of dental appliance placed inside a tooth’s biting surface. These are useful when you have a crack in a tooth that is not severe enough to need gluing back together. The inlay sits on top of the damaged area and protects it from harm. Since they are made of porcelain, the inlay can match the natural tooth color.
Onlays are similar, except they are placed over the top of the tooth at the area where a crown would go. These are used to restore the shape and function of the top of the tooth in cases where the tooth is damaged but not badly enough to need a crown put on. In this case, an onlay is just as effective as a crown but cheaper, making it easier to install one.
FAQ's
What are porcelain inlays and onlays?
Porcelain inlays and onlays are custom restorations used when a filling is not enough, but a crown is not required. Inlays fit inside the chewing surface, while onlays cover a larger area. If you’re searching for a dentist near me, these conservative options can restore strength. A dentist in Niagara Falls, ON, assesses which type suits your tooth.
When are inlays or onlays recommended?
They’re used when moderate damage or decay needs more support than a filling can offer. Porcelain inlays and onlays at Niagara Falls, ON, provide strength without removing unnecessary tooth structure. When you visit a dentist near me, we evaluate the size and location of the cavity. A dentist in Niagara Falls, ON, explains the advantages of each option.
Are porcelain inlays and onlays durable?
Yes. Porcelain materials are strong and resistant to staining. Inlays and onlays in Niagara Falls, ON, are bonded securely for long-term function. If you’re searching for a dentist near me, we can discuss lifespan based on your habits. A dentist in Niagara Falls, ON, monitors the restoration during routine visits.
How are inlays and onlays placed?
We remove decay, take impressions, and place a temporary restoration. At the second visit, we bond the custom inlay or onlay securely. Porcelain inlays and onlays provide a precise fit. When you visit a dentist near me, we ensure proper bite alignment. A dentist in Niagara Falls, ON checks comfort and stability.
Do porcelain restorations look natural?
Yes. They are matched to your enamel for a natural appearance. Porcelain inlays and onlays blend with surrounding teeth. If you’re searching for a dentist near me, we can review shade options. A dentist in Niagara Falls, ON, ensures the final result matches your smile.
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
They offer greater strength and durability for larger areas of decay. Porcelain inlays and onlays at Niagara Falls, ON, salvage more natural tooth structure compared to crowns. When you visit a dentist near me, we explain whether your tooth needs a filling, inlay, onlay, or crown. A dentist in Niagara Falls, ON, guides you based on the size of the restoration.
How do I care for an inlay or onlay?
Care is similar to natural teeth, brush (2 times) daily, floss daily, and attend regular exams. Porcelain inlays and onlays are strong but still need routine monitoring. If you’re searching for a dentist near me, we review how to maintain your restoration. A dentist in Niagara Falls, ON, checks fit and function during each visit.
