INLAYS & ONLAYS
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are methods of repairing teeth that have suffered significant decay. While fillings are created on the spot by the dentist, both inlays and onlays are created in dental labs. They can be made of gold, but they are usually made from a high-quality porcelain.
So what differentiates an inlay from an onlay? An inlay is created to fit into the chewing surface of a tooth between the high points called “cusps.” It repairs the chewing surface but does not replace any of the cusps.
An onlay also fits into the chewing surface of the tooth and does replace one or more of the cusps when required.
Why Inlays or Onlays Instead of Fillings?
If a tooth has a large cavity that needs filling, the extent of the filling could weaken the tooth. An inlay or onlay provides more protection and strength than a simple filling.
When a tooth has fractured, the only choices are an inlay, onlay or crown. In some cases, the tooth may be intact enough for an inlay or onlay to do the job.
The other time that inlays or onlays are used is when a person is having old metal fillings removed and replaced. It is often necessary to clean up decay found under the metal filling; so much of the tooth may now be gone that inlays or onlays are the best choice.
If you have suffered any of these types of damage to your teeth, consult with us with the confidence that we will choose the best method of repairing and preserving your teeth. Call us to schedule your appointment with District Smiles, located in Tenleytown, just steps from the Tenleytown-AU Metro station.