Can Inlays and Onlays Both Fix Decay?
If your dentist has found tooth decay or damage in your mouth, you are going to need restorative work. The chances are that the term filling springs to mind. However, that isn’t the only type of restoration that can be used to rebuild a damaged tooth. Inlays and onlays are alternatives that are stronger than standard fillings. But how do you know which option is best for you? Do you know your inlays from your onlays and would either be ok to repair your tooth?
What is Inlay in Dentistry
Inlays are a cosmetic dentistry treatment used to repair the grooves in the centre of your teeth. They are most commonly used on the chewing surface of back teeth and enable dentists to fix larger cavities. They are used over a traditional filling due to their strength. Unfortunately, the chewing surfaces are common locations for decay as deep fissures can easily trap plaque and food.
An inlay itself is a pre-moulded filling that is then fitted in place. The process involves removing the decay, cleaning the tooth, and taking an impression or digital photograph of the crevice area. This is then either sent to a lab or used by advanced CEREC technology in-practice to create a porcelain or composite resin restoration that perfectly matches your natural tooth colour. The inlay is then bonded to the tooth to give superior strength and greater longevity than a standard filling.
What is Onlay in Dentistry
Much like the words themselves, onlays are very similar to inlays. However, they are used to treat a different area or, more accurately, a larger area of the tooth. While it can be used to repair a cavity in the centre of the chewing surface, it can also be used to repair one or several of the tooth cusps. The cusps are essentially the raised points on a tooth.
When it comes to the treatment process for onlays, you’re looking at much the same thing as for an inlay. The decay will need to be removed, the tooth cleaned and an impression taken of the remaining area. The onlay is then created to perfectly fit the space, creating a firm and long-lasting bond with the tooth. The only difference is that as you probably have a larger amount of decay, it will take slightly longer to have it removed and restored than for an inlay,
What is the Difference Between Onlay and Inlay in Dentistry
As we’ve discussed, the difference between onlays and inlays in dentistry all comes down to the extent of the cavity that you have. When you have a small cavity, you’ll probably need a conventional filling. However, when the cavity is larger, you’ll be looking at an inlay, onlay, or even a dental crown. An inlay may be suitable if the decay is just on the biting surface; however, if the decay also reaches one of the cusps of the tooth, an onlay is more the ticket. However, for deeper decay or tooth replacement, a crown may be required as it covers the biting surface of the tooth as well as the whole of the tooth structure above the gum line.
How to Know Which Restoration You Need
When it comes to any dental restoration, you will probably want the smallest procedure that can give you the biggest results. If you have a cavity, while a traditional filling won’t always be able to do the job, you don’t always need a serious restoration like a crown. Inlays and onlays offer the perfect alternatives that enable you to regain strength but without losing any more of your underlying tooth than necessary. What’s more, inlays and onlays, as less intrusive procedures that don’t require teeth to be reshaped, which makes them less expensive too.
Ultimately, when it comes to deciding which restoration is right, it’s all about finding the right cosmetic dentistry near me. By finding a Canberra dentist with experience in placing onlays and inlays, you can ensure your restoration will be as strong and long-lasting as possible. Then, all you have to do is maintain excellent oral hygiene and ensure you visit your Woden dentist regularly to keep your teeth and your fillings in check.
