Inlays and Onlays in Rochester

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Many people have never heard the terms “inlay” or “onlay.” These dental procedures refer to locations on the tooth. When the structural integrity of your teeth has become compromised, a dental inlay and onlay are usually the solution. This repair option is used when a patient has experienced severe tooth decay or damage.

Adina Family, Dental Care professionals, provide safe and quality inlays and Onlays in Rochester, NY. Only experienced and skilled dental experts should perform this critical procedure to preserve a healthy tooth structure and to maintain your beautiful smile.

What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays are used as an alternative to traditional fillings. An inlay is a custom solid single piece used to fill a cavity between the cusps. Inlays are used when the cavity is too big, and there isn’t enough tooth structure to support the filling. However, the damage doesn’t require the use of dental crowns. Inlays are designed to fit like a glove in the hollow part of your tooth.

Onlays are used when there is extensive damage or decay to the cusps of the teeth and the biting surfaces. If the cavity can’t be fixed with an amalgam filling, an onlay is the next best option. This restoration procedure will help prevent the tooth from cracking while strengthening the tooth and protecting the decaying area. Onlays are bonded right over the cusps of a tooth. A successful onlay procedure will prevent the patient from using a crown.

Both inlays and Onlays can significantly strengthen a tooth and restore chewing force by 50 to 75 percent. 

Do I Need an Inlay or Onlay Restoration?

To accurately determine whether you need an inlay or onlay tooth restoration procedure, it’s essential to have your teeth examined by our dental experts for an official diagnosis. An inlay or onlay is typically only recommended for patients with severe cavities or who have sustained damage to a tooth due to an injury. 

Inlays vs. Fillings – What You Should Know

Inlays are often compared to composite fillings. Yet, porcelain inlays are significantly more durable than composite and amalgam fillings in several ways, which include:

• Porcelain inlays mimic your tooth color, so they are usually undetectable.
• Over time, fillings damage the tooth while inlays help strengthen it.
• Unlike fillings, inlays don’t contract or expand when you consume hot or cold foods and beverages. 
• During an inlay procedure, a minimal amount of the healthy parts of the tooth are removed, whereas fillings require that a substantial amount of the tooth be extracted. 

Onlay vs. Crown

Onlays and crowns serve different purposes. A dental crown covers the entire tooth, and a dentist may opt for a crown when a significant portion of the tooth requires reshaping. On the other hand, an onlay is a less aggressive method to restoring a tooth and is a viable option when a substantial portion of the tooth structure remains in good condition. Onlays are less expensive than crowns; however, they can be challenging to get right the first time, so it is very important to have the job done by a knowledgeable dentist. 

How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last?

One of the main benefits of inlays and onlays is that they are a long-lasting and super durable solution to tooth restoration. Generally, inlays and onlays can last between five and 30 years, depending on your dental hygiene habits, the quality of the installation, and whether or not you keep up with your follow-up visits. 

Although most inlays and Onlays last on the longer end of the spectrum, some are subjected to more wear and tear than others when they aren’t properly cared for. A good hygiene routine that includes daily brushing and flossing can help extend the life of your inlays and Onlays. In addition, you must follow up with your dentist periodically to check the stability of your inlays and Onlays.

Schedule a Consultation Today 

Fix your cavities or tooth damage with the best inlay and onlay doctors in Rochester, NY. Our skilled experts perform inlays, and onlays can mimic your natural tooth. So no one will ever know you had work done! Give us a call today at 585-227-4900 to schedule a consultation.