Dental Inlays and Onlays in Greeley & Fort Collins, CO
Inlays and onlays are bonded directly onto the teeth using special high-strength resins that can actually increase the strength of a tooth by 75 percent. As a result, they can last ten to thirty years and in some cases, where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to merit an entire crown, onlays are a great alternative.
What is a dental inlay?
An inlay, which is similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. Inlays are molded and fitted into the chewing surface of a tooth that has been damaged through decay or injury. They are created using an imprint of the affected areas that are sent to a lab for manufacturing. An inlay fits into the hollow of the tooth, but they do not affect the cusps. When the dentist takes the impression, they also attempt to best match the color of the tooth as closely as possible. This way when they are placed in the mouth they are not noticeable. The material used for an inlay can be either porcelain or a composite material that is stronger and more durable than traditional fillings.
What is a dental onlay?
An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay but extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth. Onlays are used for decay and damage to the cusps of a tooth as well as the biting surface. These are used when a cavity is too big to fill with a standard filling, or that the tooth could crack due to weakness. An onlay will increase the strength of a tooth and protect the decaying area. Unlike an inlay, this area can include the cusps as well as the space in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure. During the first visit, the filling being replaced, or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. To ensure proper fit and bite, an impression of the tooth is made by the dentist and sent to a lab for fabrication. The dentist will then apply a temporary sealant on the tooth and schedule the next appointment.
At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed, and the dentist will make sure that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. If the fit is satisfactory, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.
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