Ultimate Guide to Inlays and Onlays Restoration

Imagine having a dental restoration that not only repairs damage but also blends with your natural teeth, giving you a flawless finish. Dental inlays and onlays do exactly that. These restorative procedures are designed to match the exact color and shape of your tooth, offering a discreet and durable solution for restoring function and appearance. Keep reading to explore the benefits, types, and treatment options for inlays and onlays.

Understanding Inlays and Onlays

• Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations that are created outside of your mouth and then adjusted in place. They are usually made from metal, composite, or porcelain, using a precise casting or milling process. 

Tooth-colored options, like composite or porcelain, are especially popular because they blend well with natural teeth. These materials improve the look of your smile but also strengthen the tooth through a strong bonding process.

Inlays

• These restorations fit within the bumps (cusps) on the tooth’s chewing surface, filling the space within the tooth structure.

Onlays

• These restorations cover one or more cusps and extend over the tooth’s entire biting surface.

Different Types of Inlays 

• Inlays can be made from various materials, each offering distinct advantages. Here’s an overview of the most common types of inlays used by dentists in Everett:

Ceramic Inlays

• Ceramic inlays are made from high-quality ceramics. They are known for their natural look and durability. They blend seamlessly with your teeth and resist staining, making them an excellent choice for visible areas. Ceramic inlays are long-lasting and provide a highly aesthetic restoration.

Composite Inlays

• They are made from composite resin and are favored for their aesthetic appeal and ability to bond well with the natural tooth. They can be easily color-matched to your existing teeth, making them almost invisible. Composite inlays are also more affordable than ceramic options, making them a budget-friendly solution for many patients.

Gold Inlays

• Gold inlays are known for their strength and durability. They are made from a gold alloy and are ideal for the back teeth. While not as visually appealing as other materials, gold inlays are highly durable, biocompatible, and can handle heavy chewing forces. They are best for teeth where appearance is less of a concern.

Metal-Ceramic Inlays

• These combine the strength of metal with the natural look of ceramic. Metal-ceramic inlays offer the best of both worlds. They are a durable option for back teeth and provide a more natural appearance than full metal inlays. Metal-ceramic inlays are a reliable option for patients wanting a balance between strength and aesthetics.

Advantages of Inlay and Onlay Restorations

• They provide superior contact with adjacent teeth, improving overall dental arch integrity.
• They prevent the common issue of overhangs in Class 2 restorations, reducing gum irritation and decay.
• These restorations require less tooth structure removal than full crowns, preserving more natural teeth and protecting weakened areas.
• Made from tooth-colored materials, inlays and onlays offer improved aesthetics and can blend seamlessly with natural teeth.
• When made and placed correctly, they are highly durable and often last longer than traditional fillings.
• Their custom-made nature ensures a precise fit, reducing the risk of recurrent decay.
• Particularly with onlays, these restorations help reinforce and strengthen the remaining tooth structure.

If you are looking for the best Inlays and Onlays Services, get in touch with Icon Dental Center today. We provide multiple dental services in Seattle and Everett. You can find a detailed list of the services on our website. For more information, call us at 206-225-2882.