Custom Inlays & Onlays: Precise Tooth Repair
If your tooth has sustained significant damage, but doesn’t require a full crown, custom porcelain inlays and onlays offer an excellent solution. These restorations are designed to repair the structure of your tooth with precision and durability.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations made from porcelain, gold, or composite resin to fit the damaged area of your tooth. An inlay is placed within the tooth, filling the space between the cusps, while an onlay covers one or more cusps on the tooth’s surface. Porcelain inlays and onlays are especially popular due to their durability and ability to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color.
How Are Inlays and Onlays Applied?
Inlays and onlays require two visits to complete:
First Appointment
We begin by removing any damaged or decayed tooth structure and preparing the area for the restoration. We then take an impression of the tooth and send it to a lab for fabrication. A temporary sealant will be applied to protect the tooth until your next visit.
Second Appointment
At your follow-up appointment, we remove the temporary sealant and check the fit of the inlay or onlay. Once we ensure it fits perfectly, we bond it to your tooth using a strong resin and polish it for a smooth finish.
Why Choose Inlays and Onlays?
Unlike traditional fillings, which can weaken a tooth by up to 50%, inlays and onlays bond directly to the tooth and can increase its strength by up to 75%. These restorations are designed to last anywhere from 10 to 30 years. If your tooth damage is too extensive for a filling but doesn’t warrant a crown, inlays and onlays are an ideal alternative.
For more information or to schedule your consultation in Edmond, OK, call 405-468-9611 today!