If a tooth is decayed or damaged, it can often be restored with a porcelain inlay or onlay. Inlays and onlays are types of dental restorations that can help restore teeth that are cracked, broken, decayed, or chipped. Compared to traditional fillings, inlays and onlays treat more of the tooth’s surface area. However, unlike dental crowns, they do not cover the entire tooth’s surface. This makes them a more suitable restoration option for teeth that have sustained moderate amounts of damage.
The key difference between porcelain inlays and onlays is that an inlay only treats the tooth’s inner groves and does not extend over the tips or cusps. In contrast, an onlay treats a wider surface area and can restore the tooth’s outer cusps or edges. For these reasons, onlays may sometimes be referred to as partial crowns.
If the damage is only kept to the inner grooves, an inlay is typically recommended to minimize the amount of the tooth’s structure that has to be removed. However, if it is more extensive, an onlay may be recommended. Prior to the procedure, Dr. Paul Deratnay will perform an in-depth examination to determine the appropriate dental restoration for your tooth.
Another key difference between these types of restorations and fillings is that these are made in a dental lab. During your first appointment, Dr. Paul Deratnay will examine your tooth, clean it, and remove the decayed portions with a dental drill. Dental impressions are taken of the tooth and sent to the dental lab. We will cover the tooth with a temporary restoration to keep it protected if necessary.
Once the permanent restoration is ready to be placed, you will return to the office and the temporary restoration is removed. The permanent inlay or onlay is adhered to the tooth minor modifications can be made as necessary.
Contact Dr. Deratnay to be your dentist in Forest Hill today. You can also set up an appointment online.