Has your dentist put you in trouble by mentioning dental restorations like onlay and inlay? Do not fret it. Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made to fit your teeth and are typically made from durable materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Now that is all about their similarities, but what about the differences? Let’s find out about onlay vs. inlay.
What Makes Dental Inlays and Onlays Different?
The main difference between inlays and onlays lies in their coverage and the extent of damage that is corrected. Inlays are meant for smaller areas of decay on the interior side. They fit easily within the tooth’s edge. On the other hand, onlays are used for more in-depth damage involving one or more edges of the tooth.
Inlays are suitable for minor to moderate tooth issues, while onlays are set for more significant damage that compromises the tooth’s structural integrity.
Dental Inlays
They are designed to repair damage or decay in the central part of the tooth, providing strength and support. And it does so while preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible.
Indications for Use
Inlays vs. onlays are recommended in situations like:
- Moderate decay that cannot be effectively treated with a standard filling.
- The tooth has gotten minor fractures or damage.
- For people who cannot compromise on aesthetics. Since inlays can be made to match the natural color of the tooth, it offers seamless restorations.
Procedure
The process of getting an inlay is generally broken down into two visits:
- Visit 1: Your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then move on to take an impression. A temporary filling is placed while the inlay is being made in a dental lab.
- Visit 2: Once the inlay is ready, the dentist will bond it to the tooth using dental cement to ensure a precise fit.
Dental Onlays
On the other hand, tooth onlays are more extensive and cover one or more curves of a tooth.
Indications for Use
Onlays are used in the following situations:
- When there is extensive decay
- The tooth structure is compromised, and a crown may not be necessary.
Procedure
The procedure for getting an onlay is like that of an inlay and there is not much difference. The only change is the coverage area.
Closing Note
In a nutshell, inlays vs. onlays are designed for smaller areas in the interior of the tooth. On the other hand, the latter are used for worsened damage. If you have more questions or queries, get in touch with Dr. Kirolls Ibrahim from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry at Céline Dental for help. Dial (281) 262-2332 to schedule an appointment. Our team is just a call away to guide you through the recovery process so you can return to your normal life as quickly as possible.