Repair Tooth Damage with Conservative and Aesthetically Appealing Dental Inlays and Onlays
When moderate decay or damage forms on your teeth, a tooth filling may not be sufficient to restore your tooth. Similarly, placing a dental crown may seem like an overkill. So, what’s next? Stein Family Dentistry recommends dental inlays or onlays as a middle ground between fillings and crowns. Also called indirect fillings, dental onlays and inlays in Spokane, Washington, are a conservative treatment for restoring your tooth’s function and appearance.
What exactly are dental inlays or inlays?
Dental inlays and onlays are superior to traditional fillings but aren’t as aggressive as dental crowns. Unlike dental crowns that cover the entire tooth, indirect fillings only cover the damaged part, making them a conservative procedure.
Dental inlays are smaller than onlays. These restorations fit within the grooves or indented areas on a tooth’s chewing surface. We use inlays when the damage is confined to the tooth’s center without extending to the tooth’s outer edges or cusps.
Dental onlays cover a larger area. Like inlays, they repair damage within the grooves but extend to one or more of the tooth’s cusps. Dental onlays are often referred to as “partial crowns” because they repair the surface of a tooth without requiring the full coverage that crowns provide.
How are dental inlays and onlays made?
Unlike tooth fillings, inlays/onlays are lab-made. The procedure starts with a consultation to determine the extent of tooth damage. Next, the dentist will numb your mouth with anesthetics and gently prepare your tooth by removing the decayed/damaged portions. The dentist will thoroughly clean the area to ensure no harmful bacteria are trapped beneath the restoration.
Next, we’ll take digital scans of your tooth and create a design of your tooth with computer-aided design (CAD) technology. Once the design is approved, the dentist will use the in-house milling machine to fabricate your restoration, which takes a few minutes. When the restoration is out, we’ll bond it to your tooth with permanent adhesives, restoring your function and aesthetics.
What are the benefits of dental onlays or inlays?
Our dental inlays or onlays are created from high-quality materials to integrate seamlessly with your smile. Here are the undeniable benefits of indirect fillings.
- Conservative: Unlike dental crowns, dental inlays and onlays preserve more of your healthy tooth structure, providing strength and stability.
- Durability: Indirect fillings can last over 20 years with proper maintenance.
- Aesthetics: We customize your restorations to match your tooth’s exact color and shape to restore your smile without compromising its aesthetics.
- Simple maintenance: Dental onlays and inlays don’t need any special maintenance. Brush and floss them as you do for your natural teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Inlays and Onlays
How do inlays and onlays differ from traditional fillings?
Inlays and onlays are restorations created outside the mouth to repair teeth that need more reinforcement than a standard filling can provide. Instead of being shaped directly inside the tooth, they are designed to fit precisely onto the damaged area. An inlay restores the interior biting surface, while an onlay covers and strengthens areas that experience higher pressure. This custom approach offers improved stability without enclosing the entire tooth.
What is involved in getting an inlay or onlay?
Treatment begins with removing weakened or decayed tooth material and shaping the remaining structure to support the restoration. Dr. Stein then captures detailed measurements so the inlay or onlay can be crafted to exact specifications. A temporary solution may protect the tooth while the final piece is created. At the follow-up visit, the restoration is bonded securely and adjusted for comfort and function.
Who may benefit most from inlays or onlays?
These restorations are often recommended when a tooth is too compromised for a filling but still healthy enough to avoid a crown. Patients with stable gums, good oral hygiene habits, and moderate structural damage may be good candidates. Each tooth is evaluated individually to ensure long-term strength and predictability.
How durable are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are designed to withstand daily chewing forces for many years. Their longevity depends on consistent oral care, routine dental exams, and avoiding habits that place excess stress on teeth. As they are precisely fitted and bonded, they tend to perform more reliably than larger fillings placed in similar situations.
What materials are commonly used for inlays and onlays?
Porcelain and advanced composite materials are frequently chosen because they resemble natural enamel and maintain their appearance over time. These materials are engineered to handle functional demands while blending with surrounding teeth. In select cases, gold may be recommended for its durability. Dr. Stein helps patients weigh appearance, strength, and cost when selecting a material.
Can inlays or onlays be fixed if they become damaged?
Minor wear or small defects may sometimes be corrected, depending on the situation. When damage compromises function or seal, replacement is typically the safest option. Prompt evaluation helps prevent damage to the underlying tooth and surrounding structures. Regular monitoring allows issues to be addressed early.
What kind of care is needed after placement?
Routine brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are essential to keep restorations performing well. Patients should avoid biting hard objects that can stress dental work. Maintaining a balanced diet and addressing grinding habits if present can also extend longevity.
Do inlays and onlays feel natural once placed?
Yes, these restorations are shaped to match the natural contours of the bite. After minor adjustments, most patients find they chew and speak comfortably without noticing the restoration. The goal is seamless integration with existing teeth.
How do inlays and onlays help preserve natural teeth?
As they restore only the damaged portion of a tooth, inlays and onlays allow more healthy structure to remain intact. This conservative strategy can support tooth strength over time when compared to full-coverage options. Preserving natural enamel is often beneficial for long-term oral health.
What are the risks of postponing treatment?
Waiting can allow cracks or decay to spread, increasing the likelihood of more extensive treatment later. Addressing damage early helps stabilize the tooth and reduce future complications. Dr. Stein encourages timely restoration to protect function and comfort.
Do I need an inlay or an onlay?
Tooth decay or damage will only worsen if you don't seek prompt treatment. If you suspect your tooth damage is too significant for a typical filling, visit our office to establish whether you are a candidate for an inlay or onlay. Call (509) 463-1770 to reserve an appointment today!
