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Ask the Experts
Inlay, Onlay, & Overlay
At SHREBATY DENTAL CLINIC, we offer a variety of restorative dentistry options to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. Inlay, onlay, and overlay restorations are three popular choices for repairing damaged teeth, each with its own unique benefits.
Inlays: Filling the Gaps
An inlay is a custom-made filling that fits precisely within the cusps of a tooth, replacing a large portion of the chewing surface. It is typically used for moderate-sized cavities or areas where a traditional filling may not be strong enough. Inlays are made from durable materials like gold, ceramic, or composite resin, offering excellent strength and longevity.
Onlays: Covering More Ground
Onlays are similar to inlays but cover a larger portion of the tooth’s surface, including one or more cusps. They are ideal for repairing teeth that have sustained more significant damage, such as cracks or fractures. Like inlays, onlays are custom-made for a precise fit and can be crafted from various materials for optimal strength and aesthetics.
Overlays: Encapsulating the Tooth
Overlays, also known as partial crowns, are the most extensive of the three restorations. They cover the entire chewing surface of the tooth, including all the cusps and sides. Overlays are typically used for teeth that have lost a significant amount of structure due to decay, trauma, wear, and root canal treated tooth. They provide excellent protection and stability, restoring the tooth’s function and appearance.
Benefits of Inlay, Onlay, and Overlay Restorations:
- Preservation of healthy tooth structure: Unlike crowns, inlays, onlays, and overlays only remove the damaged portion of the tooth, preserving as much healthy structure as possible.
- Durability and longevity: Made from strong and resilient materials, these restorations can last for many years with proper care.
- Natural appearance: Inlays, onlays, and overlays can be closely matched to the color of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.
- Improved function: By restoring the tooth’s original shape and structure, these restorations allow you to chew comfortably and effectively.
Choosing the Right Restoration:
The best type of restoration for you will depend on the extent of damage to your tooth and your individual needs and preferences. Our experienced dentists at [Clinic Name] will carefully examine your teeth and discuss all available options to help you make an informed decision.
- Gold: Durable and long-lasting, but not as aesthetically pleasing as other options.
- Ceramic: Strong, natural-looking, and biocompatible.
- Composite resin: More affordable than ceramic, but may not be as durable.
The procedure typically takes two appointments. During the first appointment, the tooth is prepared and an impression is taken. The inlay, onlay, or overlay is then created in a dental laboratory and placed during the second appointment.
Depending on the extent of the damage, alternatives may include traditional fillings, crowns, or dental implants.