When it comes to restoring damaged or decayed teeth, many people are looking for solutions that preserve as much of their natural tooth structure as possible while still ensuring strength, functionality, and aesthetics. Inlays and onlays are two highly effective and conservative dental restorations that fit this bill. These options are not only minimally invasive but also provide durable, natural-looking results that can last for years. If you’re considering restoring a tooth with an inlay or onlay, it’s important to understand how these treatments work, their benefits, and how they compare to other restoration methods.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are types of indirect fillings made from durable materials such as porcelain, gold, or resin. They are custom-designed in a dental laboratory to fit the exact contours of your tooth, providing a more precise fit than traditional fillings. These restorations are ideal for teeth that have suffered moderate damage or decay, but not enough to require a full crown.
The primary difference between inlays and onlays lies in the amount of coverage they provide for the affected tooth. Inlays are designed to fill the grooves of the tooth without extending over the cusps, while onlays cover one or more of the cusps. Both types of restorations are bonded to the tooth, restoring its function and appearance while preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible.
How Are Inlays and Onlays Applied?
The process of getting an inlay or onlay typically involves two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will clean and prepare the damaged tooth, removing any decayed or weakened parts. Impressions of the tooth are taken, which are then sent to a dental laboratory where the custom inlay or onlay is made. In the meantime, your dentist may place a temporary restoration to protect the tooth.
Once the inlay or onlay is ready, you’ll return for the second visit, where the restoration is carefully fitted and bonded to your tooth. Adjustments are made to ensure that the fit is comfortable and the bite is correct.
What Are the Benefits of Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays offer a number of advantages over traditional fillings and other restorative options. Here are some key benefits:
- Preserve More of the Natural Tooth: Unlike full crowns, which require the removal of a larger portion of the tooth, inlays and onlays allow your dentist to preserve much of the natural tooth structure, making them a more conservative option.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Both inlays and onlays can be made from porcelain or composite resins that are designed to match the natural colour of your teeth. This makes them ideal for use on visible teeth, as they blend seamlessly with your natural smile.
- Durability: These restorations are made from strong, durable materials that can last 10-15 years or more with proper care. This makes inlays and onlays a long-lasting solution for restoring teeth.
- Better Protection Against Future Decay: Since inlays and onlays are custom-made to fit the exact contours of your tooth, they offer superior protection against future decay and wear.
- Minimally Invasive: The process of applying inlays and onlays requires less removal of healthy tooth tissue compared to traditional fillings or crowns, which helps maintain the structural integrity of the tooth.
How Do Inlays and Onlays Compare to Other Restorative Solutions?
Inlays and onlays are often compared to dental crowns, which are used when a tooth is significantly damaged or decayed. While crowns provide full coverage, inlays and onlays are more conservative options, as they only cover the areas that are affected by decay or damage. This makes inlays and onlays an ideal solution for patients who want to preserve as much of their natural tooth as possible.
| Attribute | Inlays | Onlays | Crowns |
| Coverage Area | Fills in the grooves and cavities of the tooth | Covers one or more cusps of the tooth | Covers the entire tooth |
| Procedure Complexity | Moderate | Slightly more complex due to extended coverage | More complex due to complete coverage |
| Material Options | Porcelain, resin, gold | Porcelain, resin, gold | Porcelain, resin, metal |
| Durability | 10-15 years (with proper care) | 10-15 years (with proper care) | 10-15 years (with proper care) |
| Aesthetic | Matches the natural tooth colour | Matches the natural tooth colour | Matches the natural tooth colour, but may be less aesthetic with metal crowns |
| Use | For smaller cavities | For larger or more damaged teeth | For severely damaged or decayed teeth |
| Cost | Generally lower than onlays | Generally higher due to complexity | Higher due to full tooth coverage |
What Materials Are Used for Inlays and Onlays?
The materials used for inlays and onlays are critical to their durability, function, and aesthetic appearance. Some of the most common materials include:
- Porcelain: This is the most popular material for both inlays and onlays due to its excellent aesthetic qualities and strength. Porcelain inlays and onlays can be custom-matched to the natural colour of your teeth, making them ideal for use on visible teeth.
- Resin: Composite resins can also be used for inlays and onlays, though they tend to be less durable than porcelain. Resin is often used for smaller restorations or on teeth that don’t undergo heavy chewing pressure.
- Gold: Gold inlays and onlays are known for their strength and longevity. While they are not as aesthetic as porcelain, they are highly durable and are often used on molars or other back teeth that are less visible.
- Ceramic: Ceramic inlays and onlays are a strong and durable option that closely mimics the appearance of natural teeth, making them a popular choice for visible teeth.
How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last?
One of the most significant advantages of inlays and onlays is their longevity. With proper care, these restorations can last between 10 to 15 years, or even longer. To ensure they last as long as possible, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine, avoid grinding or clenching your teeth, and visit your dentist for regular check-ups.
What Are the Costs of Inlays and Onlays?
The cost of inlays and onlays varies depending on several factors, including the material used, the complexity of the procedure, and the location of your dentist. Generally, inlays and onlays are more expensive than traditional fillings but less expensive than crowns. However, they are considered a worthwhile investment due to their durability and aesthetic benefits.
Why Chose Macquarie Dental Care
For those looking to restore damaged teeth with inlays or onlays, Macquarie Dental Care offers expert services tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re seeking a more conservative approach to tooth restoration or want to enhance the aesthetic of your smile, their team of experienced professionals provides high-quality, custom-made restorations that are both durable and natural-looking. Visit Macquarie Dental Care today to discuss your options for inlays and onlays and learn how these treatments can help preserve your smile for years to come.
Read More: The Benefits of Same Day Dental Crowns: Convenience Meets Technology
References
- Australian Dental Journal. “A review of the use of inlays and onlays in restorative dentistry.”
- University of Sydney. “The effectiveness of porcelain inlays and onlays in dental restoration.”
FAQs
- What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay? An inlay is used to fill the grooves and cavities within a tooth, while an onlay covers one or more cusps of the tooth for more extensive restoration. Onlays provide more coverage than inlays, making them suitable for teeth with significant damage.
- How long does the process take to get inlays or onlays? The process typically requires two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared, and impressions are taken. The second visit involves fitting the custom inlay or onlay once it’s made.
- Can I eat immediately after getting an inlay or onlay? You may be advised to avoid chewing on the treated tooth for a few hours after the procedure to allow the restoration to fully set. After that, you should be able to eat normally.
- Are inlays and onlays more expensive than fillings? Yes, inlays and onlays are typically more expensive than traditional fillings due to the custom work involved and the materials used. However, their durability and aesthetic appeal make them a good long-term investment.
- Can I get an inlay or onlay if I have a cavity? Yes, inlays and onlays are an excellent option for teeth with moderate decay or damage. They are often used when a filling is not sufficient to restore the tooth.
- How can I take care of my inlays or onlays? Proper oral hygiene is essential for the longevity of inlays and onlays. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss regularly, and avoid chewing on hard objects. Regular dental check-ups will help ensure the restorations are in good condition.
