When it comes to placing dental fillings, there is not a standard approach. In other words, dental professionals must consider the extent of damage and decay present, as well as how much healthy tooth structure remains in order to develop a suitable plan to restore teeth. Inlays and Onlays greatly benefit dentists by allowing for flexibility when it comes to placing new fillings and replacing old ones. Without question, Inlays and Onlays are durable restorations that stand the test of time.
In essence, the ideal candidate for an inlay or onlay restoration has too much damage within their tooth’s structure to be restored with a filling. At the same time, there is enough healthy tooth structure present to avoid a crown. Thus, only a specific portion of the tooth will need to be treated. For this reason, dentists often refer to inlays and onlays as “rebuilding teeth.”
Applied to the center or cusp tips of a back tooth, inlays are generally more conservative than onlays, which extend over the cusps of teeth. Each type is comprised of hardwearing materials, making them durable and long lasting. Because inlays and onlays strengthen teeth by up to 75%, they extend the life of teeth while preventing further damage and the need for additional dental treatment in the future.
To better understand the differences among inlays, onlays, and traditional dental fillings, consider the following:
- Traditional fillings often require more extensive “prepping” of teeth, which involves removing portions of the original tooth structure. By contrast, inlays and onlays allow dentists to preserve much of a tooth’s natural structure, because they can be placed in and around it.
- Inlays and onlays do not swell in response to changes in temperature. This provides a protective barrier around the margins of the restoration and also prevents bacteria from seeping beneath the cracks.
- Created to match the color of a patient’s natural teeth, inlays and onlays are undetectable.
- While inlays and onlays provide a custom fit, they are long lasting and easy to clean.
As a top dentist serving the greater Atlanta area, Dr. Leia Porcaro at Grateful Dental understands the value of conservative dentistry. With a skillful and personalized approach in all aspects of dentistry, it’s easy to see why many choose Grateful Dental for their family’s dental care. If it’s been some time since you’ve visited the dentist, if you are concerned about needing invasive treatment, or if you’re simply looking for a dental office to call home, Grateful Dental welcomes your call today.
