When Are Inlays & Onlays Best for You?

Inlays and onlays are designed to repair and reconstruct teeth affected with tooth decay or other issues. Our cosmetic dentists precisely design the inlay or onlay to fit your tooth perfectly. Depending on your situation, inlays or onlays may be the solution for you.

Describing an Inlay and Onlay

While inlay and onlay treatments do resolve important dental issues, a cosmetic dentist will be responsible for the procedure. The difference between the two solutions is:

• Inlays: Like a traditional filling, an inlay is placed on the inner cusp tips of your teeth.
• Onlays: Involving greater reconstruction, the onlay extends beyond the cusps of treated teeth.

Traditionally, these procedures were completed with gold or other metals. However, recently porcelain and composite resin have been used for a more natural look.

Preparing for Application

Your treatment will require two appointments. In the first, your dentist will:

• Remove the Filling: Any existing filling is cleared away and the tooth is cleaned thoroughly.
• Take a Tooth Impression: Your cosmetic dentist takes an impression of your teeth to accurately design the inlays and/or onlays.
• Use Lab Fabrication: The impression is sent to a lab as a template for medically precise construction.
• Apply a Temporary Sealant: Until your next appointment, the temporary sealant will protect your treated teeth.

Applying the Onlay or Inlay

During your second appointment, your dentist will complete the final three application steps:

• Sealant Removal: Your cosmetic dentist first removes the temporary sealant and cleans the tooth thoroughly.
• Fit Check: Before application, your dentist will ensure the inlays or onlays fits properly.
• Bonding: Your dentist uses a strong bonding resin to apply the inlay or onlay and your tooth gets a polish.

Things to Consider Before Your Appointment

Is an inlay or onlay really the right dental procedure for you? Here are the three top benefits:

• Increase Tooth Strength: These dental solutions can boost teeth strength by 75 percent.
• Long Life Expectancy: Your onlay or inlay has a life expectancy between 10 and 30 years.
• Crown Alternative: Traditional fillings and crowns can decrease tooth strength by 50 percent. An inlay or onlay is the perfect alternative.

Serving Fort Washington, Oreland, Ambler, Dresher & Surrounding

Do you have any questions about the inlay or onlay procedure? Would you like to schedule an appointment to speak with our dental team? Give us a call at 215.643.0363 and we’ll be happy to give you more information and schedule an appointment that works with your schedule. We look forward to hearing from you! Conveniently located in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania.