Let us “Lay Out” The Facts!

When the dentist discovers a relatively sizeable cavity in a patient’s tooth, a traditional filling isn’t always the only means of restorative treatment. There’s actually an alternative: porcelain or gold inlays and onlays. While these restorations fill the tooth just as amalgam or composite resin fillings do, they aren’t immediately placed.

Inlays and onlays require an impression be taken of the affected tooth to be created in a dental laboratory. The patient’s tooth is still prepared the same way as with fillings, and the decay (or old filling material) is removed from the tooth so that the new material can properly adhere to the tooth’s structure. There will be a temporary filling in place until the custom inlay or onlay comes back from the lab. Once it’s ready, it is secured into place using a powerful dental cement, and will fit into the treated tooth like a piece of a puzzle.

Am I a Candidate?

Patients with moderate-sized cavities are often great candidates for a porcelain or gold inlay or onlay. Patients must also be aware of the cost, as inlays and onlays are more expensive than traditional filling treatments. In the long run, however, inlays and onlays can be more cost-effective as they are capable of lasting much longer than fillings and can even last as long as 50 years with proper care! In addition to their great strength and durability, they also provide superior fit and will blend with the natural appearance of the tooth (in the case of porcelain inlays or onlays).

Comparing Inlays vs. Onlays

The difference between an inlay in an onlay is that inlays are placed in between two walls of the tooth, and onlays are placed on the top of the tooth, usually in cases where the walls have experienced more damage. While the two shapes are different, the restorations are fabricated in equal ways.

Bite Does Inlays and Onlays!

Want to know if an inlay or onlay restoration is right for you? Contact our Toronto dentist today to book a visit!