Dental Inlays and Onlays Phoenix, AZ

Inlay or Filling

Inlays are a cosmetic treatment that can replace old fillings. Increasingly, patients have had the option to choose between a filling or inlay when treating a cavity. We use an impression of the cavity in question to ensure the inlay is the exact size and shape, as opposed to other options that may weaken the tooth. In this way, the cemented inlay strengthens the tooth rather than weakening it.

As inlays become more popular because of their appearance, fillings are hardly ever requested. However, a dentist may resort to a filling for cases in which the patient is allergic to the inlay material used. In many cases, special dental material can be used as an inlay to provide the patient with the highest level of comfort.

Onlay vs. Crown

An onlay is generally used when a patient has a small hole that is only a tad larger than an inlay or old filling. In most cases, an onlay can cover the cavity hole and surrounding area. Onlays are a less aggressive restoration treatment than crowns as a smaller amount of tooth structure needs to be removed.

On the other hand, crowns are caps or covers used to restore the function and appearance of a tooth but replace the tooth itself. According to the article on caps and crowns, "Crowns are indicated for teeth with very large fillings, teeth that have had a root canal, fractured teeth, worn teeth due to grinding, and misshapen and/or discolored teeth." The key distinguishing factor a dentist will use to determine the right choice for a patient is the size of the cavity.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays

The key benefits of inlays lie in their durability and strength. They are intended to protect and seal the tooth from further damage using cemented material custom-fit to each tooth. The sealed inlays also protect the tooth from air and food particles from entering the tooth, which causes a sensitive sensation. Before an inlay treatment, the dentist removes all bacteria from inside the tooth and throughout the hole, attaining a higher level of oral hygiene. Inlays are more stable and stay in your tooth for much longer than a filling with proper oral care.

Onlays

Onlays have much of the same benefits as inlays. An added benefit to onlays is they can save much of the patient’s tooth structure and provide additional strength and support for the affected tooth. Crowns require treatment and typically involve removing the entire tooth, or at minimum, much of the tooth structure. Onlays are also custom-fit for each patient and use stain-resistant material, making them last much longer without affecting appearance.

Differences Between Inlays, Onlays, and Veneers

Veneers are customized coverings placed over the front part of the teeth. They are not meant to protect or treat the teeth and will not provide coverage against damage or decay. Before placing in the veneer, the dentist shaves down most of the tooth to make room for the full tooth-sized veneer. Since veneers are irreversible, if one becomes chipped or broken, the patient will have a cracked or missing tooth until it is corrected.

Inlays and onlays do much more to save the teeth and protect against further damage with protective, specialized dental material. Once an inlay or onlay fills the tooth, the gaping hole and surrounding area are sealed, making it easier to maintain oral health and prevent future decay. Veneers are cosmetic appliances used primarily to cover up damaged and decayed teeth, much like crowns and caps.