Dental Inlays and Onlays: A Conservative Approach to Restoring Damaged Teeth

Happy Smiles offers plenty of options if you have damaged or decayed teeth. One of the little-known restorative solutions available to patients in Clearwater and Tampa, Florida, is dental inlays and onlays. Also called indirect fillings, dental onlays and inlays repair tooth damage while preserving natural structure. 

Indirect fillings are the middle ground between dental crowns and traditional fillings, providing strength and durability. Visit Dr. Mamata Ponnaganti today to learn more about dental inlays and onlays.

What exactly are dental inlays and onlays?

They are customized restorations that repair damage that is too pronounced for a filling but not enough for a dental crown. They are created from durable and natural-looking materials to restore your tooth with near perfection.

  • Dental inlays: They repair damage within the chewing surfaces of your teeth.
  • Dental onlays: Also known as partial crowns, onlays extend beyond one or more cusps, repairing extensive damage without enveloping your entire tooth.

What can I expect from the procedure?

Before restoring your tooth with an inlay or onlay, it’s crucial to understand how the procedure unfolds to alleviate any uneasiness. Since indirect fillings are lab-made, they require at least two dental appointments.

First, the dentist will examine your tooth with X-rays to determine your suitability for inlays or onlays. Then, any decayed or damaged portions are removed, and the tooth is shaped to create a precise fit for your restoration.

Next, we’ll take a precise scan of your prepped tooth to guide the fabrication of your custom restoration. Until your inlay or onlay is ready, we’ll cover your prepped tooth with a temporary filling.

When we receive your inlay or onlay, you’ll schedule an appointment for placement. The dentist will gently remove the temporary restoration and securely bond your inlay/onlay to your tooth. A few adjustments may be necessary to ensure optimal fit, comfort, and aesthetics.

What are the benefits of dental inlays and onlays?

Many patients don’t realize there is a restoration that’s a middle ground between fillings and crowns.

Here are the benefits of little-known dental onlays and inlays.

  • Superior strength: They are created from resilient materials, providing more strength and durability than regular fillings.
  • Less invasive: Unlike crowns, indirect fillings don’t require extensive reshaping of the tooth structure, making them a less invasive option.
  • Natural appearance: Indirect fillings are made from tooth-colored materials like porcelain or composite resin, blending seamlessly with your smile.
  • Durability: With proper care, onlays and inlays can last many years without needing replacement. Many patients will have to replace them only once or twice in their lifetime.
  • Better fit: Since they are custom-made for your tooth, they provide a precise and secure fit for maximum protection.

How do I care for my dental inlay or onlay?

It’s nothing different from maintaining your natural teeth. Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least two times daily. Floss your teeth once daily and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Lastly, wear a custom nightguard if you grind your teeth at night.

Am I the right candidate for dental inlays or onlays?

Don’t let tooth damage or decay affect your comfort and oral health. Contact Happy Smiles at (727) 205-2700 to discover your suitability for dental inlays or onlays. We restore your smile with precision and care, ensuring you enjoy your healthy, confident smile for many years.