Inlays and Onlays
What are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays as well as onlays are restorations that help to restore compromised teeth. If your tooth is broken, cracked or fractured, an onlay can be used to strengthen the uppermost crown of the tooth. If you have a deep cavity or a large filling, inlays can be placed inside of the cusps of the teeth to provide strength and resiliency. Inlays and onlays can last for many years and even decades because of their durable nature.
Why are Inlays and Onlays necessary?
An inlay and onlay is often necessary if you have a tooth that has become slightly compromised. The restoration is similar to a regular dental crown, but is smaller in size. The inlay is designed to replace fillings and large cavities while the onlay is used to build up the upper crown of the tooth. To determine if an inlay or onlay is necessary, you will come in for an exam and consultation.
What makes you a candidate for Inlays and Onlays?
If you are looking for a reliable and long-lasting alternative to fillings, both inlays and onlays are a helpful alternative. Before the restoration is placed, we will perform an exam to determine if the inlay or onlay is right for you. Our goal is to provide you with a high-quality restoration that works for you. These restorations, in particular, look like your natural teeth and help in restoring overall functioning of the mouth.
What happens during the Inlay and Onlay procedure?
The tooth is prepared for the restoration before impressions are taken. If there is an existing filling or decay in the tooth, this will be removed before the inlay or onlay is placed. Impressions are then taken of the area and a new inlay or onlay is made for you in a local dental lab. You will come back in to have the restoration placed permanently. It will need to be slightly adjusted to create a comfortable bite. Once this is complete, you will be able to leave the office and can enjoy years of a solid, bright restoration.
If you are interested in either inlays or onlays, call our office today and we will work to answer any questions you have regarding this procedure.
Dr Hardin and her team are committed to serving Centralia and the surrounding communities with outstanding service, dental expertise, and a fantastic overall experience.
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