Dental Crowns vs. Inlays and Onlays If you have damaged or decayed teeth, you likely want to have them repaired, both for function and appearance. While many people are familiar with dental crowns - a tooth-shaped cap that completely covers a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its strength, shape, and visibility, not as many know about inlays and onlays. Dental Crowns vs. Inlays and OnlaysThe main difference between a crown and a dental inlay or onlay lies in the coverage. An inlay fits within the grooves of a tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps but does not fully cover the tooth like a crown. Crowns provide the most coverage and are used when a tooth needs complete restoration. Inlays and onlays, often referred to as indirect fillings, are a conservative and durable option for repairing damaged or decayed teeth. These custom restorations are ideal when a tooth has sustained moderate damage. This is damage that is too extensive for a standard filling, yet not severe enough to warrant a full dental crown. Inlays and onlays are designed to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible, providing both strength and a natural appearance. What Are Inlays and Onlays?Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations, meaning they are custom-made in a dental lab to fit each patient's tooth precisely before being bonded in place. They can be crafted from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold, all of which offer a strong, stable, and visually pleasing solution for tooth repair. Inlays fit neatly within the grooves of a tooth's biting surface, addressing damage that does not extend to the tooth's cusps. Onlays cover a larger portion of the tooth, including one or more cusps, making them suitable for more extensive damage that requires additional reinforcement. Inlays: Precision Repairs for Minor DamageInlays are used when decay or damage is confined to the grooves between the cusps of a tooth. They fit precisely within the tooth's surface, offering a seamless repair that blends with the natural tooth. Inlays provide targeted support, reinforcing the tooth while maintaining as much of the healthy structure as possible. Onlays: Reinforcing More Extensive DamageSometimes called partial crowns, onlays extend over one or more teeth cusps, making them ideal when the damage is more significant but does not require a full crown. Onlays provide additional coverage and stability, protecting the remaining tooth structure and offering a durable solution that can withstand daily chewing forces. When Are Inlays and Onlays Recommended?Dentists may suggest inlays or onlays for a range of restorative needs:
We Provide Crowns, Inlays and Onlays, and More!At Dental Works we are here to take care of your teeth, be it through restorations to repair or replace your teeth. Call us today to schedule an appointment for your oral care needs: (480) 360-7529. |
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