Inlays And Onlays

WHAT ARE INLAYS AND ONLAYS?

When More Than Half Of The Tooth’s Biting Surface Is Damaged, A Dentist Will Often Use An Inlay Or Onlay.

Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, which is similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay but extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.

Traditionally, gold has been the material of choice for inlays and onlays. In recent years, however, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and color, which can potentially match the natural color of your teeth.

HOW ARE INLAYS AND ONLAYS APPLIED?

Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure. During the first visit, the filling being replaced or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. To ensure proper fit and bite, an impression of the tooth is made by the dentist, and sent to a lab for fabrication. The dentist will then apply a temporary sealant on the tooth and schedule the next appointment.

At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed. Dr. DeShetler will then make sure that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. If the fit is satisfactory, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR INLAYS AND ONLAYS

Traditional fillings can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50 percent. As an alternative, inlays and onlays, which are bonded directly onto the tooth using special high-strength resins, can actually increase the strength of a tooth by up to 75 percent. As a result, they can last from 10 to 30 years. In some cases, where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to merit an entire crown, onlays can provide a very good alternative.

HAVE A QUESTION?

We’re here to help! If you have any questions, please contact us and we’ll be in touch shortly!

What Our Customers Say

Read firsthand accounts of how we made difference in our clients’ lives.

I always have a good experience coming to the office. Have new products and always accommodate patient with their schedule whenever possible. Office staff are always friendly and welcoming.

His office staff is always friendly and courteous. Like Dr. DeShetler himself, they take pride in their work and make your dental health their #1 priority. I give Dr. DeShetler and his office…

Every time I visit the office for my dental work. I leave feeling valued as a patient. The entire staff are excellent at what they do. They help me to relax, because I am mess with nerves…

WE TAKE CARE OF OUR PATIENTS

01. Friendly & Comfortable

Our courteous and caring staff will ensure all your dental needs are taken care of.

02. Advanced Technology

We offer modern dental technology and equipment to provide advanced comfort.

03. Personalized Care

We take pride in offering our patients a personalized dental experience.