Services

Inlays / Onlays

When over 1/2 of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged a dentist will often use an inlay or onlay.

What are inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, which is similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth; an onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay but extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.

Traditionally, gold has been the material of choice for inlays and onlays. In recent years, however, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and color, which can potentially match the natural color of your teeth.

Application of inlays and onlays can be done with our Cerec CAD/CAM technology, which uses porcelain material and is a one visit procedure, unlike the traditional two appointments.

How are they applied?

Inlays and onlays require a one to two hour appointment to complete the procedure. During the visit, the filling being replaced or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and a reflective powder layer prepares the tooth for imaging. Dr. Chantry will then acquire an image with a small camera, directly placed in your mouth. The restoration is created on the screen using the image data. Diamond coated instruments mill a ceramic block to reproduce the design. This is accomplished during a single appointment using Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacture(CAD/CAM).
After polishing, the new restoration fits precisely. A unique light hardens the bonding material, uniting porcelain and tooth. Polishing or glazing ensures a pleasantly smooth and natural feel. The color and appearance make the special ceramic material blend with your tooth. Perfectly bonded porcelain ensures an extremely long life for your teeth.
Restorations done in a single visit and no uncomfortable impression trays! Maximum Strength, great looks!

Considerations

Traditional fillings can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50%. As an alternative, inlays and onlays, being bonded directly onto the tooth using special high-strength resins, can actually increase the strength of a tooth by up to 75%. As a result, they can last from 10 to 30 years. In some cases, where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to merit an entire crown, onlays can provide a very good alternative.