Inlays & Onlays in Spokane, WA
Often called an “indirect filling,” an inlay is another option for repairing a tooth that is too damaged to hold a traditional filling yet doesn’t need an entire crown. Cascade Dental Care most often recommends this procedure for teeth that have been chipped, cracked, or are experiencing mild to moderate decay. Like all of our restorations, our inlays and onlays are always shade-matched to blend naturally with the rest of your smile.
Inlays offer far greater strength than a normal dental filling, typically allowing a tooth to retain up to 75% of its original strength while traditional fillings only retain up to 50%. The additional strength has been shown to significantly increase the longevity of your restored teeth!
When over half of a tooth's biting surface is compromised, a dentist may opt for an inlay or onlay. These dental solutions, crafted from materials like porcelain, gold, or composite resin, are affixed to the affected area of the tooth. An inlay fits within the cusps of the tooth, akin to a filling, while an onlay is a larger reconstruction covering one or more cusps. Though gold has historically been favored for inlays and onlays, porcelain has surged in popularity due to its durability and capacity to blend seamlessly with natural tooth color.
How Are Inlays and Onlays Installed?
The process for inlays and onlays typically requires one or two appointments. During the initial visit, the dentist removes any old filling or damaged section of the tooth and prepares it for the inlay or onlay. An impression of the tooth is then taken and sent to a lab for fabrication. A temporary sealant is applied, and the next appointment is scheduled.
At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed, and the dentist verifies that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. If the fit is satisfactory, the inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth using a durable resin and polished to achieve a smooth finish.
Factors to Consider for Inlays and Onlays
In contrast to conventional fillings, inlays and onlays provide a superior option for maintaining the integrity of natural teeth. Bonded directly onto the tooth with robust resins, they can enhance tooth strength by as much as 75 percent. Their durability enables them to endure for a substantial period, spanning from 10 to 30 years. Onlays prove especially advantageous in cases where tooth damage doesn't necessitate a full dental crown.