Read More About: Dental Inlays, Onlays, and Crowns

If you've ever needed dental work beyond a simple filling, you may have heard the terms inlays, onlays, and crowns. But what exactly are these dental treatments, and how do they work? In this article, we'll explore each of these procedures and explain when they might be recommended.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are dental restorations that are used to repair teeth that have moderate to severe damage, such as a large cavity or a broken tooth. They are similar to fillings, but they are custom-made in a dental laboratory and then bonded to the tooth with a strong adhesive.

An inlay is used to repair damage to the inside of the tooth, while an onlay is used to repair damage to the inside and outside of the tooth. In other words, an inlay sits inside the tooth, while an onlay extends over the tooth's surface. Both inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, composite resin, or gold.

How Do Inlays and Onlays Work?

The process of getting an inlay or onlay typically involves two appointments with your dentist. During the first appointment, your dentist will remove any damaged or decayed tooth material and take an impression of your tooth. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom restoration will be made.

In the meantime, your dentist will place a temporary restoration on your tooth to protect it while you wait for your permanent restoration. Once your custom restoration is ready, you'll return to your dentist's office for the second appointment. Your dentist will remove the temporary restoration and bond the permanent restoration to your tooth.

What Is a Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that completely covers a damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns are typically recommended for teeth that are too damaged for an inlay or onlay, or for teeth that have undergone a root canal.

Crowns can be made of porcelain, ceramic, or metal, and they are custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly. They are designed to look and function like your natural tooth, and they can be used to improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth.

How Do Crowns Work?

Getting a crown typically requires two appointments with your dentist. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any damaged or decayed tooth material and shaping the remaining tooth to fit the crown. Your dentist will then take an impression of your tooth, which is sent to a dental laboratory to create your custom crown.

In the meantime, your dentist will place a temporary crown on your tooth to protect it while you wait for your permanent restoration. Once your custom crown is ready, you'll return to your dentist's office for the second appointment. Your dentist will remove the temporary crown and bond the permanent crown to your tooth.

In Conclusion

Inlays, onlays, and crowns are all effective dental restorations that can help repair damaged or decayed teeth. Your dentist can help determine which restoration is right for you based on the extent of the damage and the location of the tooth. With the right dental care and maintenance, these restorations can provide lasting protection for your teeth and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.