Inlays / Onlays - Atria-City Dental Group

Inlays / Onlays

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Inlays / Onlays

What are inlays and onlays?

Dental inlays are a type of dental restoration used to repair a decayed or damaged tooth. They are typically made from porcelain or metal and are used when the damage or decay is too extensive for a simple filling, but not extensive enough to require a dental crown. They are fabricated by a dental lab and are designed to fit precisely into the cavity, bonded to the tooth using dental cement. Inlays are typically more durable than traditional fillings and can last for many years with proper care.

Dental onlays, also known as partial crowns, are a type of dental restoration used to repair teeth with moderate to extensive damage or decay. They are similar to dental inlays, but cover more extensive damage.

What are the benefits of inlays/onlays?

Inlays and onlays are a great option for repairing teeth with moderate to extensive damage, while providing a durable, natural-looking, and long-lasting restoration that preserves natural tooth structure. They can be colour-matched to your natural teeth to create a seamless and natural-looking restoration that blends in with the rest of your smile. 

Compared to dental crowns, inlays and onlays require less removal of healthy tooth structure and serve as a less invasive treatment option which helps to preserve natural tooth structure whilst restoring both function and aesthetics of teeth. This in turn can help an individual keep his or her natural dentition for as long as possible. 

Compared to traditional fillings, inlays and onlays are made from stronger and more durable materials such as metal and porcelain (e.g. lithium disilicate and zirconia) which have the potential to last beyond a decade with proper care. 

 

Are there risks associated with inlays/onlays?

There may be some discomfort or sensitivity following the placement of an inlay/onlay, especially if the tooth was previously severely damaged or decayed. However, this discomfort is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Post-operative discomfort which lingers or worsens can sometimes highlight issues with the pulpal health of the tooth (nerve and blood supply) which may require further investigation and treatment. 

While inlays/onlays are durable and have the potential to last a long time, issues such as recurrent decay, chipping, and dislodgement may arise, especially if they are not cared for or maintained properly. To maximise the longevity of your restorations, it is important to maintain good dental hygiene and a healthy diet, and to visit your dentist regularly for check ups.

Every patient is different and it is important to understand the specific risks you may have by seeking the professional and personalised advice from your dentist.

 

What does the procedure involve?

The inlay/onlay procedure is typically done over 2 appointments, with the first appointment being the preparation and impression, and the second appointment being the cementation of the permanent inlay/onlay.

  • Appointment 1: preparation and impression
  • During the process of restoring the tooth, your dentist will remove any decayed portions to ensure that only healthy tooth structure is remaining
  • They will prepare the tooth (by shaving it down) as conservatively as possible so as to ensure adequate space to accommodate the inlay/onlay.
  • Following this, an impression/mould will be taken of your teeth in order for the dental lab to have a reference for them to create a custom inlay/onlay that fits perfectly into the prepared cavity. 
  • With the reference, the dental laboratory will fabricate the inlay/onlay. 
  • While the permanent inlay/onlay is being made, the dentist will place a temporary inlay/onlay to protect the tooth.
  • Appointment 2: cementation of inlay/onlay
    • Once the permanent inlay/onlay is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary inlay/onlay and bond the permanent inlay/only to your tooth using a strong dental adhesive cement. The inlay/onlay will be carefully adjusted to ensure that it fits properly and does not interfere with your bite.
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