Many people immediately think of traditional fillings when treating cavities or repairing damaged teeth. However, inlays and onlays offer a durable and precise alternative that may be a better option in some instances. These restorations provide a longer-lasting solution, especially when the decay is too extensive for a filling but not severe enough to warrant a full crown.
At The Hawthorne Dentist, we carefully assess each patient’s dental condition to determine the most suitable treatment option. If you have cavities or a damaged tooth, contact our office for a consultation to determine whether inlays and onlays are right for you.
An Overview of Inlays and Onlays
Dentists call inlays and onlays “indirect fillings” because they craft them outside the mouth as a single piece to match the cavity’s exact shape and size. These restorations are mainly used when a tooth has sustained too much damage for a standard tooth filling but not enough to call for a crown.
Inlays and onlays differ mainly in the tooth areas they cover and the coverage they offer. Inlays fill the chewing surface gaps, while onlays are more extensive, covering the cusps and serving as a partial crown.
Inlays and onlays are better alternatives to dental crowns because they preserve a healthier tooth structure and do not require extensive tooth reshaping. While dental crowns are effective for addressing cavities, they often require the removal of more healthy tooth material than necessary, which can lead to the need for more complex procedures later, such as a root canal.
Types of Inlay and Onlay Materials
There are three primary materials that dental experts mainly use for inlays and onlays:
- Porcelain
- Gold
- Composite
Gold
Due to its durability, dentists and manufacturers commonly use gold to make dental onlays and inlays. This feature helps protect tooth cusps affected by damage or decay.
Teeth that have sustained fractures are particularly suited for gold dental inlays, as these restorations help protect the weakened areas against future breakage. However, the main drawback of gold inlays and onlays is their appearance. They do not match the natural color of teeth, making them noticeable. This characteristic makes them suitable for back teeth where aesthetics are less important, as they are not easily visible. Another downside is that gold is pricier than other materials, leading to higher costs for gold inlays and onlays.
In the past, gold was the preferred choice for these restorations because of its strength. However, with the rise of tooth-colored options, the demand for gold restorations has decreased.
Porcelain and Ceramic
Dentists use porcelain and ceramic to create tooth-colored onlays and inlays that closely resemble the function, shape, and color of natural teeth. These materials offer good aesthetic results. However, they require a bit more maintenance compared to other options. Ceramics and porcelain are strong and durable, especially when reinforced with metal.
Dental experts can also design inlays and onlays made from ceramic and porcelain to imitate teeth’ translucency, enhancing their cosmetic appeal.
On the downside, porcelain inlays and onlays can chip easily, are rigid, and have a higher fracture risk (though they are less prone to breaking than fillings). They can also stain and are generally more fragile than gold onlays and inlays.
Composite Material
Onlays and inlays made from composite resin are ideal for filling large cavities. They serve as alternatives to ceramic and gold restorations and provide similar benefits.
These composite resin restorations match the color of natural teeth, ensuring a seamless appearance. They are also stronger, more durable, cost-effective, and less prone to fractures than traditional dental fillings. However, they have some drawbacks, such as being rigid, prone to staining, and not as strong as porcelain or gold restorations.
Preparing For Inlay and Onlay Procedure
Steps to prepare for an onlay or inlay treatment include:
Physical Examination
Most dental procedures begin with a physical exam, allowing the dentist to evaluate the extent of tooth damage. During this exam, expect your dentist to check the health of your teeth and gums. The dentist will inspect the tooth and take precise images to determine the extent of the damage. The physical examination could include digital scans to obtain a clear view of the operation needed.
Review of Medical History
You should review your medical history before treatment, as it helps the dentist create an effective treatment plan. This history should include any previous dental issues and current medications for other health conditions. Be sure to inform your dentist about any underlying health issues, such as acid reflux or diabetes, to help them determine the best treatment approach. Also, let them know if you have allergies to anesthetics, metals, or medications to prevent safety concerns.
X-ray Examinations
In addition to the physical exam, your dentist may need to assess your internal dental structure and jawbone to see if the damage extends beyond the enamel. This information is vital for deciding on the appropriate treatment. Before the X-ray, share important information with your dentist to avoid complications. For example, if you are sensitive to heat or radiation, inform them so they can provide protective gear to reduce your exposure.
Inlay and Onlay Placement Process
The procedure for placing inlays or onlays takes place over two dental appointments. Here are the steps involved:
Tooth Preparation
In the initial appointment, the dentist will use a dental drill to eliminate the affected parts of the tooth. If an old filling is present, the dentist will remove it. This process is almost identical to what occurs during standard filling treatments. After removing the damaged tooth material, the dentist will shape the cavity to ensure the onlay or inlay fits well.
Creating Teeth Impressions
The dentist will first attach a base to support the mold, take an impression of the affected tooth, and send it to the dental lab. If you choose ceramic for your restoration, you will also have the option to select the shade for the onlay or inlay.
Placing a Temporary Inlay or Onlay
Next, the dentist will place a temporary inlay or onlay to cover the prepared area while you wait for the lab to create your dental restorations. This temporary inlay or onlay helps prevent further decay and protects the tooth from sensitivity caused by hot or cold substances. The lab will make the restoration based on the mold and send it back to the dentist.
Inlay or Onlay Placement
After the lab completes your onlay or inlay restoration, you will schedule another dental appointment for the dentist to place it. This stage usually happens a few weeks later.
During this appointment, your dentist may use a local anesthetic to enhance comfort and reduce pain. They will remove the temporary restoration and secure the permanent one in your tooth. Typically, removing the temporary onlay or inlay and placing the permanent one can be done with minimal discomfort.
Today, dentists can create composite and porcelain onlays and inlays in the office using milling machines like CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) or CAD (Computer-Aided Design) technology. In this case, you would complete the first two steps, skip the third, and proceed to the fourth step, all in one visit.
Suitable Candidates for Dental Inlay and Onlay
A patient can be an ideal candidate for an inlay or onlay treatment if they meet the following:
Patient Wants to Preserve Their Whole Tooth
Dealing with a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth is stressful. Losing some of your teeth can be unpleasant and affect your smile. In regular crown procedures, a dentist modifies the tooth by removing some of its outer layer, which involves reshaping the teeth and reducing the dental enamel instead of pulling them out or altering their parts. The dentist then fits the crowns over the remaining tooth structure to restore its shape and function. On the other hand, an onlay or inlay lets you keep all of your tooth structure. Since an onlay only covers a portion of the tooth and is bonded to it, it eliminates the need for invasive procedures.
Patient Has Serious Tooth Decay
Dental fillings are not always the most suitable solution for cavities. If a cavity is too large and has caused more damage than a filling can fix, your dentist might recommend an onlay or inlay treatment.
Dentists use onlays and inlays to fix bigger cavities since the dentist can mold the material to fit your tooth. A dental onlay is crafted in a lab to align with the tooth’s grooves and cover the cusps. The dentist will then bond the inlay or onlay to the tooth using cement, ensuring it is sturdy and shielded from bacteria. In simple terms, onlays and inlays are for cases where the damage is too significant for a filling but not severe enough to require a crown.
Patient Wants to Enhance Their Smile
Dental onlays and inlays serve various purposes, including cosmetic ones. If you are unhappy with the shade of your teeth, dental onlays can help mask discoloration. Your dentist can design onlays using ceramic, composite, or porcelain that closely resembles the color of your natural teeth. Your dentist can also use it to mend small chips and cracks.
A Patient With a Healthy Tooth Structure
To qualify for an onlay or inlay, you should have sufficient healthy tooth structure to hold and support your oral restoration. Keeping as much of your natural tooth as possible is crucial for oral health. As a result, inlays and onlays are generally a more conservative choice than dental crowns. You should maintain a good dental hygiene routine if you choose these treatments.
If you have large cavities, onlays and inlays may not suit you. In these situations, your dentist might recommend a crown that covers the whole tooth to enhance its strength and prevent additional damage.
Recovery and Aftercare
Generally, the recovery period for inlays and onlays is only a few days. You might feel some slight discomfort, particularly after getting an onlay. This feeling can persist for up to two weeks, depending on the size and depth of the restoration.
Note that your teeth can still be prone to bacteria and plaque after the procedure. Follow good oral hygiene habits to maintain the cleanliness and strength of your onlay and inlay.
Your dentist will give you aftercare guidelines to reduce the risk of dental issues. Most dentists suggest:
- Routine Dental Visits
Manufacturers and dental experts design inlays and onlays for durability, but you must see your dentist regularly to monitor their condition. Dental check-ups detect issues like loosening or decay of restorations early, enabling prompt action before they become serious.
Your dentist may use a local anesthetic during these visits to ensure that examinations or treatments are comfortable. Good oral hygiene can help extend the durability of your inlays and onlays while promoting overall dental well-being.
- Interdental Oral Cleaning
Cleaning between teeth is crucial to maintaining good dental health, particularly after receiving an inlay or onlay. You should use a soft toothbrush to avoid harming these restorations while brushing. Daily flossing is also essential, as it helps eliminate food particles and plaque that build up between your teeth and around the restorations.
For a thorough clean, consider using an antibacterial mouthwash. This will lower bacteria levels in your mouth and help prevent gum infections or inflammation.
- Diet
After your treatment, your dentist might advise you to avoid eating until the numbness from the anesthetic fades. Additionally, steer clear of hard foods such as carrots, apples, and peanuts for twenty-four hours. Once you finish your inlay or onlay treatment, limit your sugar consumption and avoid highly acidic foods. Also, stay away from sticky foods that could dislodge your restoration.
- Stopping Harmful Habits
Your dentist will advise you to stop habits that could break or affect your restoration. These habits typically include actions like biting or chewing on hard objects. Additionally, smoking can harm your gums, especially around your new onlay or inlay, over time.
- Regular Check-Up
Your dentist should examine your onlays or inlays regularly. During these visits, the dentist will inspect the treated tooth for any signs of disease, damage, or leakage. If any problems are detected, they can suggest preventive measures to help prolong the lifespan of your onlay or inlay.
Cost of Dental Inlays and Onlays
Onlays and inlays are generally pricier than standard restorations like fillings. Their cost typically depends on the materials used. For example, inlays and onlays made from high-quality materials like gold, zirconia, or porcelain are pricier than those made from composite resin. The size of the restoration can also affect the cost; onlays are generally more expensive than inlays because they are larger. Additionally, factors such as the location of the dental practice, the dentist’s skill level, and their reputation can influence the total price.
Insurance typically covers part of the costs since onlays and inlays treat dental cavities and trauma-related issues. These procedures are classified as major dental treatments, so insurance may reimburse up to fifty percent of the total cost, resulting in a lower out-of-pocket expense. If you do not have insurance, you can expect to pay between $650 to $1,200 for each tooth requiring an inlay or onlay.
Benefits of Dental Inlays and Onlays
Onlays and inlays provide both aesthetic and practical advantages for patients. Some of the key benefits include the following:
Maintaining the Natural Shape of Teeth
By using onlays and inlays, dentists can reduce the risks associated with removing too much enamel. These treatments help keep the teeth’s natural shape. Maintaining teeth’ original form and function is essential for lasting oral health and stability.
Dentists aim to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible when repairing a damaged or decayed tooth with inlays and onlays. This technique helps keep the tooth robust, intact, and healthy.
Restoring the Functionality of the Tooth
Functional restoration helps patients restore complete use of their teeth, enabling them to eat, speak, and participate in daily activities without pain or restrictions. Inlays and onlays precisely fit into the prepared area of the tooth, providing a smooth and comfortable surface for chewing.
Decay, fractures, or other problems compromise teeth, reducing their ability to bite, chew, and function effectively. Restoring damaged teeth’s function enhances oral health, overall wellness, and quality of life.
Improves Your Aesthetics
The aesthetic aspect is vital, especially for the front teeth seen when you smile or speak. Inlays contribute to a beautiful and well-proportioned smile by resembling natural teeth. This enhancement is essential for building self-esteem, fostering better social connections, and feeling good about your appearance.
Preventing Further Damage
If a damaged tooth is left untreated, it can become more vulnerable to additional problems. Inlays are important for halting the progression of damage and protecting the tooth. They provide a defense against bacteria, plaque, and further decay. Inlays are used to fill and seal damaged areas of a tooth. This preventive measure is important for preserving the healthy parts of the tooth and preventing more serious dental issues.
You Can Customize Them
Customization and precision are essential for inlays and onlays because they ensure that dental restorations fit properly and fulfill individual needs. Inlays and onlays match the tooth cavity’s size, shape, and contour.
Customization helps the inlay blend seamlessly with the adjacent teeth. The inlay’s color, shape, and texture match the patient’s existing teeth, making the restoration impossible to tell apart.
Accuracy is also essential in both the creation and placement of inlays. An inlay that fits correctly provides a solid seal and increases comfort during biting. A dentist’s measurements and impressions enable the dental lab to produce an inlay that fits seamlessly into the tooth cavity. This level of accuracy ensures that the restoration works efficiently and remains stable for an extended period.
The Disadvantages of Onlays and Inlays
The disadvantages of using dental onlays and inlays include the following:
Allergic Reactions
Onlays and inlays are made from materials that are usually safe for the body and have a low likelihood of causing allergic reactions. Nonetheless, some individuals may react to the composite resin, ceramics, or metals used in these restorations.
Allergic reaction symptoms can include:
- Itching
- Redness
- Swelling of the gums near the treated tooth.
If you believe you are having an allergic reaction, you should visit your dentist quickly to find an effective solution.
Understanding the possible risks and complications linked to onlays and inlays helps you make an informed choice about your dental restoration. While these issues are not common, you should discuss them with your dentist before beginning treatment.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can be a concern following the placement of an inlay or onlay. Certain individuals may notice that their treated tooth is more sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. This sensitivity is generally caused by irritation of the oral nerve. It usually improves with time, but consider visiting your dentist if the sensitivity remains or intensifies.
How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last?
If properly cared for, onlays and inlays can last several years. However, individuals prone to cavities, grinding their teeth, or suffering from certain health disorders may have a shorter lifetime.
Do Onlays and Inlays Need Special Care?
Inlays and onlays are strong dental restorations that need no extra care beyond regular dental hygiene. To keep them in good shape, brush your teeth twice and floss daily. You should also avoid hard items, such as ice, which could potentially harm the restoration.
Can Inlays and Onlays Break or Become Loose?
Poor oral hygiene can damage or loosen your dental inlays and onlays. Even though these restorations are durable, you should practice good oral care to extend their lifespan. After your procedure, your dentist will guide you on how to care for your mouth.
Contact a Professional Dental Clinic Near Me
Inlays and onlays are an effective way to repair damaged teeth. They not only restore the tooth’s function but also improve its appearance while preserving as much of the natural tooth as possible. Compared to traditional fillings, they are stronger and more durable.
If you have tooth damage, old fillings, or cavities that require more than a basic filling but do not yet need a full crown, inlays and onlays could be the right choice for you. At The Hawthorne Dentist, we focus on providing high-quality dental restorations that enhance both function and aesthetics of your smile. Call us today at 310-775-2557 to fix and restore your smile with expertly crafted inlays and onlays.
