When dental inlays or onlays may be the best option to rebuild your damaged tooth
There is no denying how far dentistry has advanced. Today, talented dentists like Drs. Aroon Pal, Nilay Patel, and Taylor Jemilo can rebuild teeth from the roots upward with dental implants. Never before have we been able to replicate the structure of natural teeth so closely. That said, there is still no better tooth than a natural one that remains healthy and free of damage. Teeth that remain intact support optimal function, strength, and aesthetics. Naturally, our team at Brighton Park Dental in southwest Chicago, Illinois, practices conservative dentistry that preserves the healthiest possible tooth structure. Conservative options include inlays and onlays.
What are dental inlays and onlays?
Both inlays and onlays are dental restorations, or special materials that have been precisely designed and shaped to replace deteriorated or lost tissues and to rebuild the damaged tooth. However, there are key differences between the two; notably, inlays are prepared and secured to the chewing surfaces of the teeth, while onlays are applied to cover and rebuild the damaged chewing surface as well as one or more of the tips or cusps of the teeth.
Why would I need an inlay or onlay?
Inlays are typically most suitable for individuals with large cavities in their teeth. Fillings, on the other hand, are better for smaller cavities. To securely bond a filling to the remaining tooth structure, it is essential to have enough healthy tissue; otherwise, the tooth is at risk of fractures and further damage.
Inlays offer more coverage than fillings, providing additional support for teeth with larger cavities or more extensive damage that cannot be effectively treated with a simple filling. Onlays offer even greater coverage and support than inlays. While not as conservative as inlays, onlays are a tooth-preserving alternative to full dental crowns. Because of this, they are often referred to as “partial crowns,” as a full crown encases the entire visible part of the tooth.
What can I expect from treatment?
During your initial visit, we will examine your damaged tooth to determine the most appropriate treatment options for your needs. This may include fillings, inlays, onlays, crowns, or other interventions. We will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different dental materials available for your restoration. Factors that influence our recommendations include the location and function of the tooth, as some materials are preferred for their cosmetic appeal, while others are recognized for their strength and durability.
Before any restoration is performed, we ensure that all diseased tissue is removed, and we use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth, minimizing any discomfort during the procedure. We understand that our patients come from diverse backgrounds and may have had varying experiences at other dental offices. If you feel anxious or apprehensive about the treatment, we offer dental sedation options to help you feel relaxed and ensure the most comfortable experience possible.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With good oral care at home and regular visits to Brighton Park Dental, you can enjoy your restored teeth for the rest of your life. It is absolutely essential to practice diligent and consistent brushing and flossing habits and to maintain your exams and professional cleanings at our office. The dental materials themselves can’t decay like natural teeth, but the underlying or surrounding tissue can – so, it is a must to keep harmful bacteria and other nasty substances at bay. You do that with a mix of oral hygiene practices and professional preventive services.
If it has been longer than six months since you last visited the dentist or if you are noticing worrisome changes in the appearance or feel of your smile, we want to see you right away to investigate any problems and address them before decay or other damage works its way through your tooth. Call (773) 801-5171 to request your appointment today.
