Have a damaged tooth but do not necessarily need a full crown? Sometimes a standard filling simply lacks the strength to fix a larger problem. That is exactly where dental inlays and onlays come in. These specialized restorations provide the perfect middle ground to repair, protect, and strengthen your smile.
At Dentistry at Bridlewood in Ocala, FL, led by Dr. Stephen H. Dunn and Dr. Guneshi de Mel, we know that dental inlays and onlays offer reliable and durable support to a tooth that needs more restoration than a filling can handle.
Understanding Inlays vs. Onlays
Inlays and onlays are dental restorations designed to repair damaged or decayed teeth, providing strength, durability, and a natural appearance while preserving healthy tooth structure
While people often mention them together, inlays and onlays serve slightly different purposes based on the extent of your tooth damage.
An inlay is a custom-made restoration designed to fit seamlessly between the cusps—the raised points or bumps—of your tooth. Dentists use inlays when the decay or damage sits squarely in the center of the tooth’s chewing surface.
An onlay, occasionally called a partial crown, covers a larger area. It is a customized restoration that fits securely over one or more cusps of a tooth. If the damage extends to the edges of your tooth, an onlay provides the necessary coverage and structural support.
Materials That Last
Unlike standard amalgam fillings, laboratories custom-craft inlays and onlays to match the exact dimensions of your damaged tooth. Depending on your cosmetic preferences and functional needs, we typically create these restorations using three main materials:
- Porcelain: A popular choice because it closely matches your natural tooth color, offering a virtually invisible repair.
- Composite Resin: Another tooth-colored option that works well for repairing moderate damage while blending in with your smile.
- Gold: Known for its unmatched durability and strength, gold stands up perfectly to heavy chewing forces, especially on back molars.
Reasons You Might Need an Inlay or Onlay
You might require an inlay or onlay if tooth decay or physical trauma compromises a significant portion of your tooth. When a cavity becomes too large, packing it with a traditional filling can actually weaken the remaining tooth structure. Left untreated, the tooth might fracture under the pressure of daily chewing.
Conversely, filing down the entire tooth to place a dental crown might be too aggressive if a healthy portion of the tooth remains intact. Inlays and onlays allow your dentist to preserve as much of your natural, healthy tooth structure as possible.
The Benefits of Custom Restorations
Choosing an inlay or onlay comes with several distinct advantages:
- Superior Fit: Because they are custom-milled, they create a tight, secure seal over the tooth, keeping harmful bacteria out and preventing further decay.
- Added Strength: Instead of weakening the tooth like large fillings often do, inlays and onlays actively strengthen the tooth structure.
- Longevity: Made from highly durable materials, these restorations withstand regular wear and tear, often lasting much longer than traditional fillings.
Am I a Candidate in Ocala, FL?
Finding the right restorative treatment requires professional insight. Patients considering an inlay or onlay are invited to contact our office for a thorough consultation and examination to determine their candidacy for care.
The dedicated team at Dentistry at Bridlewood in Ocala, FL, led by Dr. Stephen H. Dunn and Dr. Guneshi de Mel, will carefully evaluate your oral health and guide you toward the best solution for your smile. Contact us today to schedule your visit and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier tooth.
Contact Dentistry at Bridlewood – Stephen H Dunn & Associates:
352-873-2000
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
7555 SW Highway 200, Ocala FL
Ocala, Florida
34476