When it comes to restoring damaged teeth, you might have heard about fillings and crowns. But, have you ever heard of inlays and onlays? These dental treatments are fantastic options for fixing teeth that are too damaged for a filling but not quite ready for a crown. Hermitage Dental Group in Hermitage, TN is here to give you the lowdown on inlays and onlays, and how they can help your smile.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations used to repair decayed or damaged teeth. They are typically made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Further, they are often more durable and long-lasting than traditional fillings.
Inlays: These are used to fill cavities within the cusps (the raised points) on the chewing surface of a tooth. They fit snugly within the grooves of the tooth and are ideal for treating decay that doesn’t affect the tooth’s cusps.
Onlays: Sometimes called partial crowns, onlays are used when the damage extends beyond the cusps. They cover one or more cusps and can even extend over the entire biting surface of the tooth. Onlays are perfect for more extensive damage that still leaves enough healthy tooth structure to avoid a full crown.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Durability: Inlays and onlays are made from strong materials that can withstand the pressure of chewing. This makes them more durable than traditional fillings.
Conservative Treatment: These restorations require less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to crowns, preserving more of your natural tooth.
Natural Look: Porcelain and composite resin inlays and onlays can be color-matched to your natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural appearance.
Strengthens Teeth: By bonding directly to the tooth, inlays and onlays can strengthen the tooth and restore its functionality.
The Procedure
Getting an inlay or onlay typically requires two visits. During the first visit, Dr. Friedmann will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and take an impression. This impression is sent to a lab where your custom inlay or onlay is crafted. Meanwhile, a temporary filling protects your tooth. On your second visit, the temporary filling is removed, and the inlay or onlay is bonded to your tooth with a strong adhesive.
Hermitage Dental Group in Hermitage, TN
At Hermitage Dental Group in Hermitage, TN, Dr. Friedmann and our dedicated team are committed to providing the best dental care for you and your family. Whether you need a filling, an inlay, or an onlay, we’ll help you choose the right treatment to restore your smile and keep your teeth healthy.
Inlays and onlays offer a perfect blend of strength, durability, and aesthetics for restoring damaged teeth. If you think you might benefit from these treatments or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Hermitage Dental Group. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!