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Cosmetic Dentistry

About Dental Veneers

Veneers

Inlays and onlays are types of dental restorations used to repair damaged or decayed teeth.
They are often referred to as indirect fillings because they are fabricated outside the mouth in a dental laboratory and then bonded to the tooth.
 
Here’s a breakdown of inlays and onlays

About Inlays & Onlays

Inlays

Material

Inlays are typically made from materials like porcelain, composite resin, or occasionally, gold. These materials are chosen for their durability and natural appearance.

Preparation

The damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is removed, leaving behind healthy tooth structure. An impression of the prepared tooth is then taken, and the inlay is custom-made to precisely fit the cavity.

Application

Inlays are used to repair the central portion of a tooth, particularly the chewing surface (occlusal surface) or the areas between the cusps (pointed parts) of a tooth. They are well-suited for restoring teeth with moderate levels of damage or decay.

Bonding

Once the inlay is ready, it is bonded to the prepared tooth using dental adhesive. The inlay fits snugly into the cavity and is designed to match the natural contours of the tooth.

About Inlays & Onlays

Onlays

Material

Onlays are also made from materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold. They are selected based on the tooth's location and the extent of damage.

Preparation

Similar to inlays, the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and an impression is taken. However, in the case of onlays, more of the tooth's structure may be preserved compared to crowns, which require more extensive tooth reduction.

Application

Onlays are used for more extensive repairs than inlays. They can cover the chewing surface (occlusal surface) of a tooth, as well as one or more cusps. Onlays are particularly useful for restoring teeth with larger cavities or fractures.

Bonding

The custom-made onlay is bonded to the prepared tooth. Onlays are designed to fit precisely and restore the tooth's natural shape and function while providing added strength and protection.

Both inlays and onlays offer several advantages:

  • They are highly durable and long-lasting.
  • They provide a natural appearance that blends seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.
  • They require less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to traditional crowns.

 

Dra. Lina Rivera will recommend inlays or onlays when appropriate based on the extent of tooth damage, location, and your individual dental needs. These restorations are essential for preserving the integrity and function of a tooth that has experienced damage or decay.

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