Smyl Manatee
Inlays and Onlays
Precision restorations:
Custom inlays and onlays for a perfect fit.
Inlays & Onlays in Bradenton, FL
Porcelain inlays and onlays are an excellent and conservative solution for cavity pain, reduced chewing strength, and general
degeneration of the back teeth.
What Are Inlays & Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are similar to fillings in that they replace damaged
and decayed parts of a tooth. However, they are used in different
situations and the process for applying them is also different. They
occupy the space between standard fillings and more extensive
crowns. Once fully attached to a tooth, inlays and onlays replace the
damaged and lost parts of the tooth, allowing normal use with no
change to standard at-home dental care.
Function and Purpose
Inlays and onlays fill in parts of a tooth’s surface damaged by
decay. They are used on molars and premolars, specifically
teeth with multiple “cusps,” or raised points on their outer edge.
Inlays repair the parts of the tooth between the cusps, while
onlays do the same and also cover one or more cusps. Both
treatments serve the same function and purpose. Once placed,
inlays and onlays may actually be stronger than the original,
pre-decay tooth.
Virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth, inlays and
onlays discreetly restore teeth to an optimal state of health.
They resemble natural teeth so closely that only you will
know the truth. With the CEREC® system, we can complete
same-day inlays and onlays, avoiding the need for
temporaries and multiple visits, making it even easier on
your schedule.
Inlays & Onlays Overview
Historically, inlays and onlays have been used since at least the
nineteenth century, with porcelain inlays dating back to at least 1857.
They were later overshadowed by gold inlays in popularity. Today’s
inlays and onlays are usually made from gold, porcelain, or ceramic
materials. They are created outside the mouth before being bonded
to the damaged tooth. This procedure typically requires two
appointments. During the first, dental impressions are taken and
sent to a lab where the inlay or onlay is manufactured. During the
second, the inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth.
Gold inlays and onlays are the most durable and will always require
more than one visit, but all materials used for inlays and onlays are
long-lasting and simple to take care of. While not quite as strong as
gold, ceramic and porcelain pieces tend to be more aesthetically
pleasing and natural-looking.
When Inlays & Onlays Are
the Solution
Inlays and onlays are typically chosen when a standard filling
would not provide enough support for the damaged tooth and
a crown would be excessive. They are used when a filling would
weaken the remaining tooth structure too much. An inlay or onlay
is an excellent solution because it supports and strengthens a
damaged tooth without requiring extensive reshaping. However,
there are still situations where a filling or crown might be more
appropriate. Consult your dentist to determine if an inlay or onlay
is right for you.
Aftercare
Once an inlay or onlay has been placed, maintenance is simple.
They should be cared for like natural teeth: brush twice a day,
floss once a day, and maintain a healthy diet. Most inlays and
onlays last many years with proper care. If you have any
questions or concerns about how best to maintain your inlays,
speak with your dentist who will be happy to provide guidance.
At Smyl Manatee, we are dedicated to providing high-quality
restorative dental solutions that help you maintain a healthy and
beautiful smile. If you think you might need an inlay or onlay,
contact us today to schedule a consultation.