Inlays and onlays

Inlays and onlays are a form of dental restoration used to repair posterior teeth with mild to moderate decay or cracked and fractured teeth that are not sufficiently damaged to need a crown. They are an alternative to dental fillings and crowns for restoring damaged teeth. Inlays and onlays are typically made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold. The primary difference between them lies in the amount of tooth structure they cover. An inlay fits within the cusps, or rounded edges, of a tooth, similar to a filling, whereas an onlay extends over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.

Indications

Inlays and onlays are indicated for teeth that have too much damage for a filling but are not so compromised as to require a full crown. This can include:

• Teeth with large defective fillings
• Teeth that have undergone significant decay
• Fractured teeth where the damage does not warrant a full crown

Materials

The materials used for inlays and onlays include:

• Porcelain: Popular for its ability to match the natural tooth color, making it aesthetically pleasing.
• Composite Resin: Also matches the tooth color but may not be as durable as porcelain.
• Gold: Highly durable and preferred for the back teeth where aesthetics are less of a concern.

Procedure

The procedure for placing inlays and onlays typically requires two dental visits. During the first visit, the dentist removes the decay or old filling material and takes an impression of the tooth, which is sent to a dental lab. A temporary sealant is placed on the tooth. At the second visit, the temporary sealant is removed, and the inlay or onlay is checked for fit before being bonded to the tooth with a strong resin adhesive.

Advantages

• Durability: Inlays and onlays are made from strong, durable materials that can last much longer than traditional fillings.
• Conservation of Tooth Structure: They require less tooth removal than crowns, preserving more of the natural tooth.
• Aesthetics: Porcelain and composite resin can be matched to the natural color of the tooth, providing a more natural appearance.
• Fit: They offer a superior fit to fillings, reducing the risk of further decay.

Disadvantages

• Cost: Inlays and onlays are often more expensive than fillings and may not be covered by insurance.
• Time: The procedure requires at least two visits to the dentist.

Conclusion

Inlays and onlays offer a durable and aesthetic solution for restoring teeth that cannot be treated with fillings but do not require full crowns. They represent a middle ground in dental restoration techniques, combining the benefits of both fillings and crowns.