Inlays / Onlays

Porcelain Inlays / Onlays

A porcelain inlay or onlay is indicated if there is moderate to severe tooth decay or if the tooth has mild cracks or fractures. Severe cracks or fractures or biting pain on a tooth would require a full crown. The material for an inlay or onlay can either be porcelain or gold.

Dental Inlays vs. Dental Onlays

The use of an inlay and onlay is determined by how much and where the compromised tooth structure is located.

Inlays - If the damage is confined to the center of the tooth and in-between two teeth. The restoration material will be bonded within the tooth surface.
Onlays - If the damage includes the center of the tooth and also one or more of the tooth cusp tips.

Process: Both restorations have the same procedures

First visit: All of the decay and compromised tooth structure is removed. An impression or mold is taken of the prepared tooth and than a temporary is fabricated to be placed on the tooth. The impression is sent to the lab for fabrication. A shade of porcelain to match your teeth is picked so the final inlay or onlay matches perfectly. You will be able to chew and function with the temporary. Fabrication of the permanent inlay or onlay takes about two weeks.

Second visit: The temporary is removed, tooth is rinsed and cleaned and the restoration is placed and bonded permanently in place. After bonding the restoration is adjusted to proper bite and polished.

Benefits of Dental Inlays and Dental Onlays

There are many reasons why porcelain dental inlays and dental onlays have become such a popular dental restorative method:

Damaged or decayed teeth are significantly strengthened
Porcelain materials can be color-matched to your smile, making them virtually invisible
There is no expansion or contraction of the porcelain material, which can lead to tooth fractures
More of your natural tooth is preserved during the process, as less tooth removal is necessary for the procedure
They are durable and long-lasting

If you have additional questions about porcelain dental inlays and dental onlays and would like to discuss your situation with an experienced and caring cosmetic dentist, please contact Dr. Ruzzo at The Dental Group of Tysons today to schedule a thorough consultation.