Dental Inlays and Onlays
When more than half of a tooth's biting surface is damaged, dental inlays and onlays are used to restore it. At DeFuniak Springs Family Dental, we offer dental inlays and onlays that can help preserve your smile.
Dental Inlays and Onlays in DeFuniak Springs, FL
Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made restorative treatments offered at DeFuniak Springs Family Dental, designed to repair rear teeth with mild to moderate decay or damaged surfaces. These procedures are ideal for when the damage is not extensive enough to require a crown.
Both inlays and onlays are highly durable, can be made from various materials to match your natural tooth color, and are a conservative way to preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible. Whether you’re dealing with decay or looking to replace old fillings, our team is equipped to restore the function and appearance of your teeth with precision-crafted inlays and onlays.
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How are dental inlays and onlays applied?
The process for applying dental inlays and onlays typically involves two visits to DeFuniak Springs Family Dental:
- First Visit: After numbing the area, any decay or old filling material is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. An impression of the tooth is taken to ensure the inlay or onlay fits perfectly. This impression is sent to a dental lab where your inlay or onlay is custom-made. A temporary sealant is applied to protect the tooth while your inlay or onlay is being crafted.
- Second Visit: The temporary sealant is removed, and the custom inlay or onlay is checked for fit and color. Once everything looks good, it’s bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.
The difference between the two lies in their coverage: inlays fit within the cusps (or bumps) of the tooth, while onlays cover one or more cusps.
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When should I consider a dental inlay or onlay?
You might consider a dental inlay or onlay if you have a tooth that has too much damage or decay for a filling but isn’t severely damaged enough to require a full crown. Inlays and onlays are also suitable for:
- Repairing teeth with large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay
- Restoring teeth that have cracked or fractured if the damage is not extensive enough for a crown
- Patients seeking a more durable and long-lasting solution to tooth decay than what a traditional filling can offer
- Those looking to preserve as much of their natural tooth as possible, since inlays and onlays require less tooth removal than crowns
At DeFuniak Springs Family Dental, our goal is to provide you with the best possible care and options for your dental health. Inlays and onlays offer a strong, lasting, and aesthetically pleasing solution for tooth restoration. If you’re experiencing tooth decay or damage and are unsure about the best course of action, our team is here to help evaluate your situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about dental inlays and onlays or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our office, and we will be happy to discuss further.
