IF YOU HAVE A DAMAGED TOOTH, WHETHER IT’S CRACKED, CHIPPED, OR DAMAGED FROM TOOTH DECAY, SOMETIMES YOUR DENTIST WILL RECOMMEND A DENTAL INLAY OR ONLAY.
Inlays and onlays are used when a tooth cannot be repaired with a filling but the damage is not serious enough for a dental crown. Dental inlays and onlays are used to protect a damaged tooth and allow it to function normally.
The difference between an inlay and onlay is where they are placed. A dental inlay will be placed in the center of the tooth, and a dental onlay will be placed on one or more areas of the bitting surface of the tooth. Dental onlays may also be referred to as “partial crowns.”
A dental inlay or onlay procedure can usually be completed in one or two visits.
Step 1: Preparing the Tooth
Your dentist will begin by preparing your tooth for the inlay or onlay. This includes removing the damaged area of the tooth and filing down the specific areas of your tooth that will be receiving the inlay or onlay.
Step 2: Impressions
Next, your dentist will need to make impressions of the tooth to ensure a proper fit. The inlay or onlay can either be made in a lab or sometimes the dentist can make them in their office.
Step 3: Permanent Inlay or Onlay
If your dentist can make the inlay or onlay in their office, they will be able to get your permanent one ready on the same day. If they send your impressions to a lab, you will receive a temporary one while you wait for the lab to create the permanent one.
When your dentist has the final inlay or onlay created they will remove the temporary one, if necessary, and place the permanent one on your tooth with a strong bonding agent.
Step 4: Adjustments
Once the permanent inlay or onlay is placed, the dentist will make any adjustments to be sure it is comfortable.
Your dentist can offer you local anesthesia during this procedure as some irritation may occur when the dentist is preparing the tooth for the dental inlay or onlay. You and your dentist will also discuss the type of material you would like to use. There are three types of materials that can be used, including:
- Composites
- Metal
- Porcelain
Your dentist will be able to tell you which material best fits your needs. Following your procedure, your tooth may be more sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages for a few days and you may experience gum tenderness. If this last for more than a couple weeks, it is important to contact your dentist.
