Inlays and Onlays

Tooth pain is the result of a bacterial infection of the tooth. In a process known as tooth decay, bacteria demineralize the hard tissues of the tooth and damage the tooth’s organic material. If caught early, however, tooth infections can be treated with dental fillings. If the tooth structure is too weak to support a traditional filling, however, your dentist may recommend an inlay or an onlay.

Inlays

Inlays require two separate appointments. In the first appointment your dentist will clean out the tooth decay and take an impression. This impression is then sent to a dental laboratory. At the lab, the inlay is crafted to meet your specifications. Depending on your needs, the inlay can be made of metal, porcelain or a composite plastic resin. At the second appointment the inlay will be cemented into place.

Onlays

An onlay works exactly the same way as an inlay but covers more of the tooth surface. Like an inlay, an onlay requires two appointments. An impression taken at the first appointment is sent to a dental lab. At the second appointment the onlay received from the lab is cemented into place.

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