When you have a cavity, we know the main goal is to treat it quickly and effectively to prevent further decay. For many years, fillings have been the go-to solution. However, depending on the size and location of the decay, we might recommend a different approach. Modern dentistry offers several ways to restore a tooth's strength and appearance, including inlays and onlays. Understanding the differences between these options helps you make an informed decision about your oral health.
At our practice, we believe in a conservative approach to restorative dentistry, which means we always aim to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. Whether a filling, inlay, or onlay is the best choice depends on the extent of the damage to your tooth. We will walk you through each option to explain why one might be more suitable for your specific situation. Our priority is to provide a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing restoration that will protect your tooth for years to come.
Understanding Dental Fillings
A dental filling is one of the most common procedures we perform. We recommend a filling when decay is relatively small and contained. The process is straightforward and typically completed in a single appointment.
The Filling Process
We begin by numbing the area around the affected tooth to ensure you are comfortable. Next, we carefully remove the decayed portion of the tooth using a dental drill. After cleaning and preparing the area, we place the filling material into the cavity. We use tooth-colored composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Once the material is placed, we use a special light to harden it, then shape and polish the filling so it fits your bite perfectly.
When Fillings Are the Right Choice
Fillings are ideal for treating minor to moderate cavities. Because the material bonds directly to the tooth, it provides good support and seals the area from bacteria. However, fillings are not always the best solution for extensive decay. If a large portion of the tooth is damaged, a filling may not provide enough strength to withstand chewing forces, potentially leading to fractures or other complications down the road. In these cases, we look to other restorative options.
Exploring Dental Inlays
When a tooth has more damage than a filling can handle but does not require a full crown, a dental inlay is an excellent option. Inlays are custom-made restorations that fit within the cusps (the pointed projections) of a molar or premolar.
How Inlays Work
The procedure for an inlay depends on the amount of tooth structure missing and what is required for the restoration versus a filling. Unlike fillings placed directly on the tooth, inlays are custom-fabricated. Thanks to our advanced CEREC technology, we can often create and place your inlay in a single visit. We start by preparing the tooth and taking a digital impression. This impression is sent to our in-house milling machine, which crafts your custom inlay from a block of high-quality porcelain. Once complete, we bond the finished inlay securely into place. In some cases that require lab fabrication, two appointments may be necessary.
The Advantages of Inlays
Inlays offer several advantages over large fillings. They are crafted from stronger, more durable materials, making them a long-lasting solution that can strengthen the tooth. Because they are custom-made, they provide a superior fit, which helps to seal out bacteria and prevent new decay from forming. Furthermore, inlays milled by our CEREC system offer an exceptional aesthetic result, matching the color and translucency of your natural teeth for a restoration that is virtually invisible. An inlay is a great conservative choice when the damage is contained within the central part of the tooth's chewing surface.
Discovering Dental Onlays
A dental onlay is similar to an inlay but is used to repair more extensive damage. While an inlay fits within the cusps of a tooth, an onlay extends over one or more of these cusps. For this reason, onlays often receive the nickname "partial crowns."
When We Recommend an Onlay
We recommend an onlay when a tooth's structure is too compromised for a filling or inlay but not damaged enough to need a full dental crown. An onlay allows us to conserve more of the natural tooth structure than a crown would, which is always our preference. The procedure for placing an onlay is similar to that for an inlay. Using our CEREC system, we can often complete the entire process in a single appointment, from preparation and digital impressions to final placement. The onlay is custom-milled from durable porcelain to ensure a perfect fit and a substantial, durable restoration.
Benefits of Choosing an Onlay
Onlays are incredibly strong and can significantly increase the structural integrity of a damaged tooth. By covering the weakened cusps, an onlay protects the tooth from the forces of chewing and reduces the risk of fracture. Like inlays, they are made from high-quality materials that are more durable than composite filling material. This quality makes them an ideal long-term solution for teeth with substantial decay or damage. Porcelain onlays also provide a beautiful, natural-looking result that restores both function and appearance.
Making the Right Choice for Your Smile
Choosing between a filling, inlay, or onlay ultimately depends on the health of your tooth and the extent of the damage. We will always conduct a thorough examination and discuss our findings with you, recommending the most conservative and effective treatment for your needs. Our goal is to restore your tooth to its optimal health and function while preserving as much of its natural structure as possible. We want to ensure your smile remains strong and beautiful for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Restorative Dentistry
How long do inlays and onlays last?
Inlays and onlays are crafted from highly durable materials like porcelain or gold, so they can last for many years, often for decades. CEREC inlays and onlays last as long as, or even longer than, standard versions. Their longevity depends on factors like your oral hygiene habits, the forces of your bite, and regular dental checkups. With proper care, they are a very reliable and long-term restorative solution.
Do I need a crown if I get an onlay?
An onlay is often called a partial crown because it restores one or more of the tooth's cusps, but it is a more conservative option than a full crown. A full crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth. We typically recommend an onlay when the tooth is too damaged for a filling but not damaged enough to require a full crown, allowing us to preserve more healthy tooth structure.
At Oak Road Dentistry, we have proudly served the Snellville community for over 20 years, offering compassionate, state-of-the-art dental care for the entire family. If you have questions about your dental health or need to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us.