What Is The Difference Between Inlays And Onlays?
If your teeth are damaged or decayed but do not require a dental crown, our Cypress, TX, dentists may recommend inlays and onlays. These porcelain restorations fit into or over your tooth, mimicking its natural appearance and function. Inlays and onlays are different in terms of how much portion of the tooth they cover.
Inlays only cover the middle part of the tooth and do not include the cusps, which are the raised edges of the tooth. Onlays, on the other hand, cover more of the tooth surface, including one or more cusps. Our cosmetic dentist will decide which a better option is for you based on the size and location of the tooth cavity. They are more conservative than crowns, as they preserve more of your healthy tooth enamel.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays in Cypress, TX
Inlays and onlays are natural-looking restorations that our Cypress, TX, dentists offer to repair your teeth. They offer many advantages, which include:
- They restore the decayed or damaged part of your teeth.
- These restorations improve the normal functioning of your teeth.
- By blending in with the shade of your teeth, they make your smile more attractive.
- They reinforce the teeth and protect them from further decay.
- They are conservative as they do not require extensive enamel removal.
- They are more cost-effective than other alternative restorations.
- These restorations can last for many years with proper oral hygiene.
Steps Involved in the Procedure for Inlays and Onlays in Cypress
Inlays and onlays are also known as indirect restorations because, unlike usual dental fillings, they are prepared in a dental lab. The procedure requires two appointments at our practice. The first visit involves numbing your teeth with a local anesthetic and preparing the tooth cavity. After this step, we will smoothen the edges of the cavity and record impressions of your teeth.
Our Cypress, TX, dentist will send these impressions to a dental lab with the desired shade guide for customized inlays and onlays. On the second visit, we will place the restoration over your tooth and check its fit. Finally, we will bond it with your tooth permanently. Our specialists will also provide care instructions to make these restorations last longer.
Schedule An Appointment
To learn whether you are a good candidate for inlays and onlays in Cypress, TX, schedule a consultation with our cosmetic dentist today. We can help you make the best decisions for your oral health and smile. Call us at (281) 262-2332 for an appointment.