Inlays and Onlays
What might begin as only small patches of tooth decay can seem to rapidly become significant issues. Before you know it, much of your tooth has been eaten away. A simple filling will no longer suffice, but this is where dental inlays and onlays can step into the spotlight. At Highland Smiles Dentistry, we proudly provide custom inlay/onlay treatment for natural-looking tooth restoration.
What Is a Dental Inlay?
A dental inlay is a custom-fitted molding that is placed within the tooth to restore a portion destroyed by decay. Early-stage decay may be addressed with a filling, but once more of the tooth is gone, you may require an inlay. Each inlay is made by in our partnered lab with durable porcelain or ceramic, depending on your needs.
What Is a Dental Onlay?
An onlay is the next step up from an inlay but functions in the same way. An onlay covers a portion of the tooth, lying over the worn-out parts. These work best when you have extensive tooth damage but do not quite need a full crown yet.
What Is the Process for Getting Inlays and Onlays?
Step 1: The Consultation
First, we need to take a look at your tooth. We evaluate its health and how viable each treatment option is. You also have time to ask any questions and go through your expectations for treatment. If this option proves right for you, we can schedule you for your next visit to begin treatment. Depending on availability, we may be able to begin the next step on the same day as your consultation.
Step 2: Clearing Out Decay and Damage
Before moving forward, we need to ensure your tooth will not continue to decay. After numbing the area, Dr. Mansour can clear away any decayed part of the tooth, leaving behind only healthy material. Eliminating all decay is crucial to prevent the tooth from becoming more worn down while waiting for your inlay/onlay.
Step 3: Taking Impressions
With the decay gone, we can take impressions of the tooth. We send these to the lab, which will then custom-make your inlay or onlay. We work with an accredited lab that provides inlays/onlays made from durable, high-grade materials.
Step 4: Placing Your Molded Inlay or Onlay
After your inlay or onlay arrives, you can come in to have it placed. It should fit right into or onto your tooth like a glove. Dr. Mansour will then permanently affix it to the tooth and polish it to ensure a snug fit and natural look. By the time you leave the office, you will find yourself smiling.
Inlays and onlays not only restore the appearance of a tooth but can improve its structural integrity.
Do I Need an Inlay or Onlay?
Inlays and onlays are the middle ground between routine fillings and dental crowns. If you catch tooth decay early on, you can fix a cavity with a dental filling. When it eats away at most of the tooth, then only a crown can restore it. Inlays and onlays offer a tooth restoration option for patients between those two stages.
Alternative options can include:
- Dental Filling: With milder decay or damage, we can restore a tooth with this routine option.
- Dental Crown: Significantly damaged teeth may best be treated with a crown placed over them.
How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last?
Every inlay and onlay will be unique, and how long they last can vary. The lifespan of a dental inlay or onlay can range from 5 to 30 years. Factors that influence how long your treatment lasts will include:
- Your at-home oral hygiene (brushing, flossing)
- Attending routine dental check-ups at least twice a year for cleaning
- Minimizing the amount of sugar in your diet
- Keeping your teeth safe from injury (e.g., from contact sports)
- Avoiding smoking or any oral tobacco product use
Book Your Consultation
Call Highland Smiles Dentistry today to set up an appointment for inlays or onlays in El Cajon. Dr. Mansour has years of experience finding unique solutions for restoring his patients’ smiles with lasting, comfortable dental care. Book your visit today by phone or by using our online form.
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