Dental Inlays and Onlays in Canberra
Dental Inlays and Onlays Explained for Belconnen Patients
It really comes down to where the damage is on the tooth. Dental inlays are custom made to fit right into the cavity of the tooth, specifically between the cusps. A dental onlay, on the other hand, is a bit more extensive restoration.
An onlay covers the chewing surface and can even wrap over the edges. We often call an onlay a partial crown because it does such a great job of protecting the remaining tooth structure without needing to grind the whole tooth down.
Whether we’re using composite resin, gold, or porcelain, these pieces are created in a dental laboratory to the exact shape of your mouth. They have superior mechanical properties compared to a standard filling, making them a very reliable choice for posterior teeth (your molars) where the biting pressure is heaviest.
What are inlays and onlays used for?
Inlays are made of composite resin, gold or ceramic material and are fitted into the tooth’s cavity, while onlays are made of a resin material and cover the entire surface of the tooth. Inlays and onlays are more durable and less likely to break than other types of dental fillings.
Who Needs Dental Inlays or Onlays in Macquarie & Belconnen, Canberra?
During a Checkup And Clean at our Macquarie practice, our dentist might suggest this conservative procedure if they spot:
- A broken tooth that needs extra support
- An old filling that’s leaked or cracked
- A dental cavity that’s too wide for a normal composite restoration
- A severely damaged surface that needs more than just a quick patch-up
Sometimes, after a root canal treatment, a permanent onlay is the best way to seal the tooth structure and prevent further damage.
Materials Used for Dental Inlays and Onlays
We use a few different materials depending on what your oral health needs are and, of course, what you prefer visually.
- Gold – A gold inlay is incredibly strong. It has a fantastic survival rate and handles wear and tear better than almost anything else. While it’s not the colour of natural teeth, some patients still swear by it for those back teeth you can’t see.
- Ceramic – Ceramic inlays (or porcelain) are the go-to for a natural appearance. They’re custom-made to match your natural tooth shade perfectly and are very resistant to staining.
- Composite Resin – This is a composite material that’s great for restoring teeth where you want a balance of strength and aesthetics. It’s particularly good for a damaged tooth that needs a bit more reinforcement than a regular filling provides.
Restore Damaged Teeth with Inlays and Onlays in Macquarie, Canberra
If you’ve been searching for “inlays and onlays near me” because of a nagging toothache or a lost filling, we’re here to help. We’re tucked away in Macquarie, right near Jamison Shops, serving our neighbors in Cook, Aranda, and Hawker.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out which treatment is right for you.
