Inlays & Onlays

Dental restorations come in various forms, and inlays and onlays are among the most conservative and durable options. These restorations are often recommended for patients who need more than a simple filling but less than a full crown. Inlays and onlays in Houston, TX, provide a tailored approach to tooth repair, helping restore the function and aesthetics of a tooth while preserving much of the natural structure.  

This article will explore what inlays and onlays are, their benefits, and what patients can expect from the procedure. For those seeking quality dental care, consulting our skilled dentist in Houston, TX, can provide insights into the most appropriate restorative treatments for their needs. 

What Are Inlays and Onlays? 

Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations, meaning they are custom-made in a dental lab and then bonded to the tooth by our dentist. These restorations are ideal for treating teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma but still retain enough healthy tooth structure to avoid a crown. 

• Inlays: Inlays are designed to fit within the grooves of a tooth's biting surface without extending over the cusps (the raised points on the tooth). They are often used for treating small to moderate decay or damage within the tooth's chewing surface. 

• Onlays: Onlays, also known as partial crowns, cover a larger portion of the tooth, including one or more cusps. They are typically recommended when a tooth is more extensively damaged but does not require a full crown. 

Both inlays and onlays in Houston, TX, are made from materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold, with porcelain being the most popular due to its natural appearance and durability. 

When Are Inlays and Onlays Necessary? 

There are several scenarios where inlays and onlays may be the most appropriate restorative treatment: 

• Large Cavities: When a cavity is too large for a standard filling, an inlay or onlay provides a more stable and long-lasting solution without compromising the tooth's structure. 

• Damaged or Cracked Teeth: If a tooth is cracked or chipped but still retains a significant amount of healthy tissue, an onlay can protect and restore the tooth without needing a crown. 

• Replacing Old Fillings: Over time, old fillings may crack, leak, or fall out. Inlays and onlays can replace these fillings, offering a stronger and more durable solution. 

• Preserving Tooth Structure: One of the primary benefits of Inlays and onlays is that they allow for the preservation of more of the natural tooth structure compared to crowns, which require significant reduction of the tooth. 

For a better smile and improved oral health, contact us at Houston Precise Dental Care for the best inlays and onlays and the perfect dental restoration. 

The Procedure for Inlays and Onlays 

The process of receiving inlays or onlays typically takes two appointments. Here's a breakdown of what patients can expect: 

Initial Consultation and Preparation 

During your first visit, our dentist in Houston, TX, will examine the tooth to determine whether an inlay or onlay is the best course of action. If the tooth is decayed, damaged, or has an old filling, the dentist will clean the affected area and prepare the tooth for restoration. 

After preparing the tooth, our dentist will take impressions of the tooth to create a model. This model will be sent to a dental lab, where the custom-made inlay or onlay will be crafted to fit perfectly within or over your tooth. In the meantime, our dentist will place a temporary restoration to protect the tooth. 

Placement of the Inlay or Onlay 

Once your inlay or onlay is ready, you will return to our dentist's office for placement. The dentist will remove the temporary restoration, clean the tooth, and check the fit of the custom-made inlay or onlay. After ensuring a precise fit and proper bite alignment, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to the tooth using a strong dental adhesive. Finally, the restoration will be polished to blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth. 

The Benefits of Inlays and Onlays 

Several key benefits make inlays and onlays excellent choices for dental restoration: 

Durability 

Inlays and onlays are made from highly durable materials that withstand years of wear and tear. With proper care, they can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years. 

Preservation of Natural Tooth Structure 

Unlike crowns, which require significant reduction of the tooth, inlays and onlays preserve more of the natural tooth structure. This conservative approach helps maintain the tooth's integrity while providing a strong restoration. 

Aesthetic Appeal 

Porcelain inlays and onlays are highly aesthetic and can be color-matched to your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural appearance. 

Superior Fit and Protection 

Inlays and onlays are custom-made to fit your tooth precisely, providing a more accurate fit than fillings. They also help to protect the tooth from further damage by distributing biting forces more evenly. 

Strengthening the Tooth 

Inlays and onlays bond to and reinforce a weakened tooth's structure, providing additional strength. This makes them ideal for teeth weakened by decay or large fillings. 

Are You a Candidate for Inlays or Onlays? 

If you have a damaged tooth that requires restoration but still has enough healthy structure, you may be a candidate for inlays or onlays. Patients who want to preserve as much of their natural tooth as possible while receiving a durable and long-lasting restoration are ideal candidates for this treatment. However, those with extensive damage or decay may require a full crown instead. 

It's essential to consult with our knowledgeable dentist in Houston, TX, who can evaluate your dental health and recommend the most suitable restoration option. The dentist will consider factors such as the extent of the damage, your bite, and your cosmetic goals before suggesting an inlay or onlay. 

Caring for Inlays and Onlays 

After receiving inlays or onlays, it's important to care for them like your natural teeth. Here are some tips to ensure their longevity: 

• Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Proper oral hygiene will prevent decay from forming around the edges of the inlay or onlay. 

• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits with our dentist in Houston, TX, for check-ups and professional cleanings. Our dentist will monitor the condition of your inlays or onlays to ensure they remain in good shape. 

• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: While inlays and onlays are durable, it's still important to avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or chewing sticky foods that could dislodge the restoration. 

Conclusion 

Inlays and onlays in Houston, TX, offer durable, conservative, and aesthetically pleasing solutions for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They provide the strength and protection of a crown while preserving more of your natural tooth structure. If you're considering this type of restoration, consult our skilled dentist in Houston, TX, to determine if inlays or onlays are the right choice. With proper care, these restorations can enhance the appearance and function of your smile for many years to come. 

Schedule an appointment today at Houston Precise Dental Care, located at 10019 S Main St A6, Houston, TX 77025, by calling (713) 433-6431. Please visit our official website to learn more about the various services we provide.