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Porcelain Inlays
An inlay restoration is a custom-made filling made of composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain. Porcelain inlays are popular because they resemble your natural tooth. A porcelain inlay is made by our professional dental laboratory and is permanently cemented into the tooth by Dr. Stelmach.
Inlays can be utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma. They are an ideal alternative to conventional silver and composite fillings. Also, they are more conservative than crowns because less tooth structure is removed in the preparation of inlays.
Porcelain Onlays aka Partial Crowns
Onlays are essentially identical to inlays with the exception that one or more of the chewing cusps have also been affected and need to be included in the restoration. They are custom-made fillings made of composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain. You may know them by another name: onlays are also referred to as a partial crowns.
Onlays can be utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma. They are an ideal alternative to crowns (caps) because less tooth structure is removed in the preparation stage.
Porcelain onlays are popular because they resemble your natural tooth. We get them made by our professional dental laboratory and then Dr. Stelmach permanently cements them onto the tooth.
What to Expect
Inlays and Onlays Used For
- Broken or fractured teeth.
- Cosmetic enhancement.
- Decayed teeth.
- Fractured fillings.
- Large fillings.
Process
An inlay or onlay procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate impressions (molds) that will be used to create your custom inlay or onlay as well as a temporary restoration.
While the tooth is numb, Dr. Stelmach will remove any decay and/or old filling materials. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared, shaping the surface to properly fit an the inlay/onlay restoration. A temporary filling will be applied to protect the tooth while your inlay/onlay is made by a dental laboratory.
At your second appointment your new inlay/onlay will be carefully and precisely cemented into place. A few adjustments may be necessary to ensure a proper fit and that your bite is comfortable.
You will receive care instruction at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, a proper diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new inlay.
As with most dental restorations, inlays and onlays are not always permanent and may someday require replacement. That said, they are highly durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.