What are Inlays and Onlays?
Both an onlay and inlay are designed to build up and enhance your existing teeth. Back teeth that have broken or cracked slightly may benefit the most from these restorations. Inlays are made to sit inside the grooves of a back tooth while the onlay sits over top of the tooth itself. You can expect the inlay or onlay that you've had placed to last for decades before replacement is required.
Why would Inlays and Onlays be necessary?
The reason you might need an inlay or an onlay is because a back tooth has cracked or slightly broken. You might have a large area of decay that needs to be removed, and a filling is no longer an option for saving the tooth. Most often, you can think of this restoration as a smaller version of a dental crown. When a dental crown isn't needed, an inlay or onlay is a better option.
What makes someone a candidate for Inlays and Onlays?
The best way to tell if you need an inlay or onlay is with an exam. The exam allows us to identify teeth that are cracked, damaged or compromised in some other way. If you need either of these restorations, it's a smart idea to have it placed sooner rather than later. The reason for this is because the inlay and onlay protects the tooth from further damage.
What happens during the process to place Inlays and Onlays?
The process to place an inlay or onlay will start out by removing old filling material or decay from the tooth. The area is prepped to take impressions, and we'll then use these molds to make the actual restoration for you. The restoration is matched to your existing smile, so it won't look out of place or unnatural. We then place the restoration at a later appointment and adjust how it feels and fits on the tooth. With the proper care and regular brushing, you can expect the inlay or onlay to last for a multitude of years before it'll need replacement.
If you would like to learn more about either of these restorations, call us now in Tyler, TX to speak with one of our trained and highly skilled professionals.