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Durable Inlays and Onlays for Natural-Looking Tooth Restoration

At Narre Warren Family Dental Group, we believe that restoring the function and appearance of your teeth should be done with precision, care, and high-quality materials. Inlays and Onlays are ideal options for repairing damaged or decayed teeth, offering a durable, natural-looking alternative to traditional fillings. Whether you're dealing with cavities, cracks, or wear, inlays and onlays can provide the strength and aesthetic appeal your smile deserves.

Inlays and onlays are dental restorations used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or injury. These custom-made restorations offer a more durable and natural-looking solution than traditional fillings, particularly for larger cavities or damaged teeth. Both inlays and onlays provide a conservative approach that preserves more of your natural tooth structure while strengthening and restoring your smile.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom restorations designed to fit into or over damaged teeth. The key difference between the two lies in the extent of coverage:
  1. Inlays - These are custom-made fillings that fit within the grooves of a tooth. They are typically used for cavities in the middle part of the tooth.
  2. Onlays - These are larger than inlays and cover one or more cusps (the pointed edges) of the tooth. Onlays are used for more extensive damage or decay.
Inlays fit into the grooves or pits of a tooth when the damage is confined to the tooth’s interior. Onlays are used when more of the tooth needs restoration, including the tooth’s cusps. Both options are made to match the natural colour of your teeth, providing a seamless, beautiful result.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays offer numerous benefits, making them an excellent choice for dental restorations:
  1. Durability- Both inlays and onlays are made from durable materials like porcelain, which can last longer than traditional fillings.
  2. Aesthetic Appeal - These restorations blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering a more aesthetic result than silver fillings or other materials.
  3. Conservative Approach - Inlays and onlays preserve more of the healthy tooth structure compared to crowns, providing a more conservative restoration option.
  4. Strengthening Teeth - They help strengthen the tooth, preventing further damage and wear.
  5. Long-Lasting Solution - With proper care, inlays and onlays can last for many years, making them a reliable solution for tooth repair.
Inlays and onlays are made from materials like porcelain, which are not only strong but also mimic the appearance of your natural teeth. They help restore the tooth's integrity without removing excessive healthy tissue.

When Are Inlays and Onlays Used?

    Inlays and onlays are suitable for a variety of dental issues, including:
  1. Cavities or Decay - They are ideal for cavities that are too large for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a crown.
  2. Broken or Cracked Teeth - Inlays and onlays are effective for restoring teeth that have fractures or significant wear, especially those on the chewing surface.
  3. Cosmetic Improvement - They can also be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, chipped, or uneven.
If you have a large cavity, fractured tooth, or discolored teeth, inlays and onlays can restore both the function and appearance of your smile.

The Procedure for Getting Inlays or Onlays

The process of getting inlays or onlays typically involves two visits:
  1. Initial Consultation and Examination: - Your dentist will examine the tooth, take X-rays, and assess the extent of damage or decay. This will help determine if inlays or onlays are the best treatment option.
  2. Preparation: - The damaged part of the tooth is removed, and the area is cleaned. The dentist will then take an impression of the tooth to create a custom restoration.
  3. Temporary Filling: - A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth until the permanent inlay or onlay is ready.
  4. Fitting and Cementing: - Once your inlay or onlay is ready, the dentist will place it on your tooth, ensure a perfect fit, and bond it securely with dental cement. Any necessary adjustments will be made to ensure proper bite and comfort.

Material Options for Inlays and Onlays

There are various materials available for inlays and onlays, each offering distinct advantages:
  1. Porcelain - This is the most common choice due to its natural look and durability. Porcelain restorations blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color, making them ideal for visible areas.
  2. Gold - Gold inlays and onlays are extremely durable and often used for back teeth due to their strength. However, they are more noticeable than porcelain or composite materials.
For a natural look, porcelain is the best option, while gold may be preferred for back teeth due to its strength and longevity.

Care and Maintenance of Inlays and Onlays

To ensure the longevity of your inlays or onlays, follow these simple care guidelines:
  1. Regular Oral Hygiene - Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent plaque build-up and decay around the restoration.
  2. Avoid Hard Foods - While inlays and onlays are durable, avoid chewing on hard items such as ice or hard candy to prevent damage.
  3. Routine Dental Check-ups - Regular check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your restorations and catch any potential issues early.
  4. Be Mindful of Stains - Although porcelain is stain-resistant, it’s still wise to limit your intake of stain-causing substances such as coffee or wine.
Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups will help your inlays and onlays last longer. Avoid hard foods and stain-causing substances to keep your restoration looking great.

Cost of Inlays and Onlays

The cost of inlays and onlays varies depending on the material chosen, the size of the restoration, and the complexity of the procedure. Your insurance may cover part of the cost, depending on your coverage.

Why Choose Us for Your Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays provide an excellent balance of strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making them a fantastic solution for restoring teeth affected by decay, fractures, or wear. Whether you're looking to repair a damaged tooth or improve the appearance of your smile, these custom restorations offer a long-lasting, natural-looking result.

Consult with your dentist at Narre Warren Family Dental Group to explore if inlays or onlays are the right solution for you, call us today (03) 8905 1904 or book online.