Do you have a cavity that needs to be filled? If so, our dentist in Waterlooville at Cowplain Dental Practice may recommend an inlay or an onlay. But what are dental inlays and onlays, and how do they work? In this post, we will explain everything you need to know about these treatments!
Dental inlays and onlays are dental treatments that are used to fill cavities. They are made of porcelain or composite resin, and they can be used to fill small or large cavities.
Inlays are used to fill small cavities, while onlays are used to fill larger cavities.
The treatment process for dental inlays and onlays is similar. First, our team will clean out the cavity and remove any decay. Next, an impression will be made of your tooth so that the inlay or onlay can be custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly.
When your inlay or onlay is prepared, we will bond it into the correct position using an appropriate dental adhesive. Your restored tooth will not only look like your original tooth, but also function like it, allowing you to bite, chew and eat without any discomfort.
Our team will examine your tooth and let you know if this treatment is right for you.
Due to progress in dental technology (called CAD/CAM), porcelain inlays can be produced by our dentist in Waterlooville using a special computerised machine. This means that you can get your inlay or onlay the same day that you have your cavity filled!
Alternative to dental fillings
If you're looking for an alternative to dental fillings, inlays or onlays might be the right option for you. Inlays and onlays are used to repair tooth decay or damage. Dental teams usually recommend inlays and onlays when there isn't enough tooth structure left to support a dental filling, but the tooth is still strong enough to support an inlay or onlay. They are bonded to your tooth with dental cement unlike fillings.
Why not use a dental crown?
Inlays and onlays can be a partial alternative to dental crowns. Crowns are used to cover the entire tooth, while inlays and onlays only cover a portion of the tooth. They can be used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. They can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth that has been discoloured or misshapen. They do offer structural support, but in a more limited way than a crown.
If you have a tooth that needs to be restored, talk to our team about whether an inlay or onlay is right for you. Our dentist in Waterlooville can help you choose the best treatment for your needs.
Dental inlays and onlays are only one option for restoring a damaged tooth, but they offer several benefits over other options, such as dental crowns in certain situations.
Does the treatment hurt?
The treatment process for dental inlays and onlays is similar to getting a filling, so it should not hurt. However, if you are worried about the treatment, we offer sedation dentistry options that can help you relax during your appointment.
If you have a cavity that needs to be filled, please call our office today to schedule an appointment. Our team will examine your tooth and let you know if this treatment is right for you. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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