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When over half of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged, a dentist will often use an inlay or onlay instead of a filling.
Inlays and onlays are actually variations on the technique of dental crowns. An inlay is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.
The difference between these and a “traditional crown” is that a crown covers the entire tooth; an inlay or onlay covers the underlying tooth to a lesser extent.
Inlays and onlays are very strong, an in some circumstances, may be more durable than ordinary fillings. They are suitable for the grinding surfaces of the molar teeth and can me made out of gold, composite or porcelain.
The Procedure
Inlays and onlays require one to two appointments to complete, based on the choice of material your dentist recommends.
Single visit procedures utilize our advanced Cerec technology to mill the inlay/onlay in our office while your tooth is being prepared. Your inlay or onlay is fitted and bonded that same day.
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Traditional two appointment inlay/onlays are also available, if the tooth requires a dental lab fabrication of the filling. In the first visit the filling or decay is removed, the tooth is prepared; an impression of the tooth is taken and then sent to a dental lab. Your doctor will apply a temporary sealant to your tooth and schedule your next appointment. At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed and the inlay or onlay is fitted correctly and adjusted for your bite.
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Longevity
Because they are bonded directly onto the tooth, inlays and onlays can actually increase the strength of a tooth by up to 75% and will last from 10 – 30 years.
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