Inlays & Onlays
Eugene, OR
Inlays & Onlays in Eugene provided by Justin Higbee DDS
at Higbee Family Dentistry
 Inlays and onlays are standard dental procedures used to restore the strength of a damaged tooth. They provide a middle-ground solution, bridging the gap between essential treatments like fillings and more invasive options such as crowns. According to our dental professionals at Higbee Family Dentistry, both inlays and onlays are beneficial. The decision on whether to use an onlay or inlay will depend on the specific location and extent of repair needed. Inlays are used for significant internal damage, while onlays are used to correct surface deterioration.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays are restorative treatments that dentists use to repair significant tooth damage without needing to use a full crown. These custom-made pieces are crafted to fill areas of a tooth affected by injury, wear, or decay. Both molars and premolars with biting surfaces can benefit from inlays and onlays. They help maintain the integrity of a damaged tooth, enable everyday use during eating and speaking, and often result in aesthetically pleasing outcomes.
Dental Inlays
They are constructed from materials such as ceramic, porcelain, or resin composite; dental inlays are designed to fit precisely into cavities caused by injury or decay. They offer superior strength compared to traditional fillings and can be color-matched to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. This makes them a discreet option for treating significant dental issues.
Dental Onlays
Onlays are commonly used to repair teeth with damaged or decayed cusps, offering structural support where a filling may not be sufficient. They are also great for treating chips, cracks, and fractures. Some people might pick an onlay instead of teeth whitening. Onlays are traditionally made from metal. However, they can also be made from porcelain or resin. Onlays are more extensive than inlays, with some resembling short dental crowns. They cover all four cusps of a tooth while leaving its sides exposed. For such a simple product, the solution it offers to various dental problems is amazing.
How Do Onlays Compare to Crowns?
Onlays and crowns are restoration options for teeth, addressing larger areas of decay compared to standard fillings. Each option presents distinct advantages, with the choice between the two depending on the specifics of your dental case. An onlay covers the cusp of the tooth, while a crown extends over the tooth above the gumline. Your dentist may recommend an onlay if using a crown is deemed overly aggressive for treatment or if the tooth lacks the necessary support for a crown. In terms of cost considerations, onlays are marginally more expensive than crowns, though the price difference is relatively insignificant. Since a crown encompasses the entire tooth, reshaping the tooth might be necessary for the crown treatment to be effective. Engaging a skilled dental practitioner is crucial for either treatment option.
Inlays vs. Direct Fillings
Both inlays and direct fillings are viable methods for treating cavities, though inlays are typically preferred for cavities with larger surface areas. These procedures restore tooth integrity, but direct fillings involve the use of composite material and are usually completed in a single dental visit. Inlays employ custom-made materials, often utilizing a combination of gold and ceramic, shaped precisely to fit the tooth. Inlay procedures necessitate multiple visits as the dental team needs to create a mold of your teeth and ensure the final product fits your mouth following the design process.
In general, inlays are more durable than direct fillings, which use an amalgam material that may react to temperature changes, causing cracks. Inlays reinforce the tooth structure without causing sensitivity to temperature changes and are tailor-made to fit the unique structure of your mouth. One notable difference lies in the time required for each treatment. Direct fillings can be completed in a single dental appointment. In contrast, for inlays, you will typically need to visit the dental office at least twice: once for the impression and later for the final placement. Direct fillings are also more cost-effective, although this may vary depending on your dental provider and overall dental needs.
Step-by-Step Inlay and Onlay Procedure
Your dentist removes the damaged part of the tooth using a dental drill and places a base to support the mold before taking the impression of your tooth to the lab. While awaiting the restoration, your dentist fits a temporary inlay or onlay over your tooth. Once the laboratory crafts a restoration from the mold, they will send it back to your dentist. Finally, at your subsequent appointment, your dentist installs the restoration.
Once your inlay or onlay is in place, your dentist will provide a set of aftercare instructions. This may include refraining from eating until the anesthesia wears off and staying away from hard foods like apples, peanuts, and carrots for approximately 24 hours. You might also be given a list of specific foods to avoid. Your dental surgeon will also guide you on proper flossing and brushing techniques post-procedure. Expect some mild discomfort after an onlay is installed. This discomfort may persist for a few weeks, depending on the depth and extent of the restoration.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Inlays and Onlays
The advantages and disadvantages of inlays and onlays are worth considering. Although the advantages generally outweigh the disadvantages, it is important to acknowledge the drawbacks. Inlays and onlays provide enhanced protection against further tooth decay, offering a substantial advantage in terms of dental health. In addition, these dental restorations are custom-made to match the color of your teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural appearance that is often lacking in other alternatives. In terms of longevity and durability, inlays and onlays outperform most other types of tooth repairs when correctly cared for.
On the downside, the cost of inlays and onlays is slightly higher, reflecting the quality and longevity they offer. Additionally, patients should be aware that multiple visits to the dentist are usually required for the placement of inlays and onlays, adding a logistical consideration to the treatment process.
Contact Us Today!
If you have suffered a fractured tooth, inlays and onlays provide the best solution. They are the best way to retain your natural teeth and prevent further damage. Higbee Family Dentistry can help you choose an option that suits your particular needs. Call us at (541) 342-1187 to arrange an appointment for inlays or onlays. |
