Are inlays and onlays a painful procedure?

During the procedure, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout the process. You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity after the anesthesia wears off, but it is generally minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Are inlays and onlays noticeable?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made to match the color and appearance of your natural teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable. The tooth-colored materials used, such as porcelain or composite resin, provide a seamless blend with your natural tooth enamel, ensuring a natural and esthetic result.

Can inlays and onlays be repaired if damaged?

If an inlay or onlay becomes damaged or dislodged, it may be repairable depending on the extent of the damage. In some cases, the restoration may need to be replaced entirely. It is important to contact your dentist promptly if you suspect any damage or issues with your inlay or onlay, as early intervention can often prevent further complications.

How do I care for inlays and onlays?

Caring for inlays and onlays is similar to caring for your natural teeth. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Avoid biting or chewing on hard objects, as this can potentially damage the restoration.

How long do inlays and onlays last?

Inlays and onlays are designed to be durable and long-lasting. On average, they can last for 10 to 30 years or even more with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. However, their lifespan can vary depending on factors such as oral habits, tooth location, and the materials used.

Inlays and Onlays

Rediscover your natural beauty with seamless inlays and onlays

Dental Inlays and Onlays

Dental inlays and onlays are restorative dental procedures that are used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. They are considered conservative alternatives to full dental crowns and are often used when a tooth’s damage or decay is too extensive to be treated with a traditional dental filling, but not severe enough to require a crown.

Inlays and onlays are made from tooth-colored materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or sometimes gold. They are custom-made in a dental laboratory based on impressions taken of the patient’s teeth. The inlay or onlay is designed to fit precisely within the prepared cavity or onto the damaged portion of the tooth.

Here are the main differences between dental inlays and onlays:

Inlays: Inlays are used when the cavity or damage is limited to the chewing surface and does not extend to the cusps (pointed edges) of the tooth. They are bonded to the tooth’s surface within the cusps and provide reinforcement and protection to the remaining natural tooth structure.
Onlays: Onlays, also known as partial crowns, are used when the damage extends beyond the chewing surface and involves one or more cusps of the tooth. They cover a larger portion of the tooth and provide additional strength and support. Onlays are bonded onto the tooth’s surface, covering the damaged area and preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

The process of receiving an inlay or onlay typically involves two dental visits. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth by removing any decayed or damaged portions. An impression of the tooth is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory for the creation of the custom restoration. A temporary filling or restoration is placed on the tooth to protect it until the final restoration is ready.

During the second visit, the temporary filling or restoration is removed, and the dentist checks the fit and appearance of the inlay or onlay. If everything is satisfactory, the restoration is bonded onto the tooth using dental adhesives. The dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper bite and fit.

Overall, dental inlays and onlays offer a conservative and esthetic solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They provide durability, strength, and a natural appearance, allowing patients to maintain the functionality and beauty of their smiles.

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Examination and Treatment Planning

Dr. Kumar will examine your tooth and determine if a dental inlay or onlay is necessary. X-rays may be taken to evaluate the extent of the damage or decay. A treatment plan will be developed based on your specific needs.

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Tooth Preparation

Before placing an inlay, the affected tooth needs to be prepared. This involves removing a small portion of the tooth’s decayed or compromised structure to create space for the inlay or onlay. If the tooth is extensively damaged or decayed, additional dental work, such as root canal treatment, may be required.

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Impression

After tooth preparation, an impression of the tooth and surrounding area is taken. This impression serves as a model for creating a custom-made dental inlay or onlay that fits precisely over the prepared tooth.

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Temporary Inlay or Onlay

While the permanent inlay or onlay is being fabricated in a dental laboratory, a temporary inlay is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it. Dr. Kumar fabricates temporary inlays of onlays himself. The temporary is fabricated with the best dental material available in the market today and is well-polished and finished. Here are the reasons why a temporary inlay or onlay is used:

Protection: A temporary restoration protects the prepared tooth from sensitivity, discomfort, and damage. It covers the exposed tooth structure, preventing it from being affected by temperature changes or pressure from biting and chewing.
Preservation of Tooth Structure: The temporary helps maintain the shape and position of the prepared tooth. It ensures that the surrounding teeth do not shift or move into the space left by the missing or prepared tooth.
Functionality: A temporary restoration restores the functionality of the tooth, allowing you to eat, speak, and chew normally while waiting for the final crown. It helps prevent any disruption to your daily activities.
Aesthetics: A temporary restoration provides a temporary solution to restore the appearance of the tooth. While it may not match the final inlay or onlay’s aesthetics perfectly, it offers a more natural-looking appearance than leaving the prepared tooth exposed.
Evaluation and Adjustment: The temporary restoration also allows your dentist to assess the fit, bite alignment, and overall comfort before the final restoration is placed. Any necessary adjustments can be made at this stage to ensure the best possible fit and function of the permanent inlaly or onlay.
Patient Satisfaction: Provisional inlay or onlay give patients an opportunity to preview and experience the look and feel of the final crown. This allows for feedback and any desired modifications to be communicated to the dentist before the fabrication of the permanent restoration is completed.

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Inlay/Onlay placement

Once the permanent inlay or onlay is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary inlay/onlay and check the fit and appearance of the permanent one. Adjustments can be made if necessary. Once everything is satisfactory, the final restoration is cemented or bonded onto the prepared tooth using dental adhesives.

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Final Adjustments and Polishing

After the Inlay or Onlay is securely placed, we will ensure proper alignment with your bite and make any necessary adjustments. The surface is then polished to achieve a natural-looking shine.

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