What are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are small pieces of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to damaged areas of a tooth. Similar to a dental filling, an inlay is placed inside the cusps of a tooth while an onlay is much larger and covers one or more cusps. Unlike dental crowns, inlays and onlays do not cover the entire tooth. At Country Club Dentistry, we create your inlays and onlays to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth so you don’t even notice they’re there.
When Do I Need an Inlay or Onlay?
You might be wondering why you would need an inlay or onlay when dental fillings and dental crowns already exist. Unfortunately, dental fillings are only ideal for small amounts of tooth damage. They don’t offer enough strength to restore your teeth when significant damage occurs. Fillings only restore tooth strength up to 50% while inlays or onlays restore strength up to 75%. Inlays and onlays also last longer.
Dr. Strober will recommend an inlay or onlay when your tooth has suffered too much damage for a dental filling but not enough to warrant an entire dental crown. Inlays and onlays also cost less than dental crowns. Although dental crowns offer much more protection and strength, they are not always necessary. In these cases, Dr. Strober will recommend an inlay or onlay.
Inlays and Onlays Procedure
If Dr. Strober determines that you need an inlay or onlay, he will first begin by prepping the tooth. If there is any decay present, he will remove it first. Next, Dr. Strober will take impressions of your tooth using CEREC™ and will create the inlay or onlay in our dental office. Once it’s finished, Dr. Strober will check the fit and then bond the inlay or onlay to your tooth. In just one visit, your tooth will be restored and back to complete health, function, and beauty.
Same-Day Inlays and Onlays in Rancho Mirage
If you need an inlay or onlay in the Rancho Mirage area, Dr. Strober can provide you with same-day treatments. Please contact Country Club Dentistry to schedule an appointment with our cosmetic dentist today. Give us a call at (760) 832-7915 today.
