Porcelain Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and Onlays are lesser-known dental restorations. Inlays are an alternative to conventional dental fillings used to fill cavities, whereas Onlays are used to restore the biting surface of excessively worn-out teeth. Both these restorations are custom-fabricated and offer a perfect fit on the teeth.

What Are the Advantages of Choosing Inlays and Onlays?

• Since these restorations are made from dental-grade ceramic, their appearance can be customized to match natural teeth. This helps to keep them under disguise without being too apparent.
• They offer excellent durability, which is similar to that of enamel. This feature allows them to stay as good as new for a long time.
• Inlays help to restore the strength of the teeth that are affected by cavities. This wouldn’t be possible when large cavities are restored using dental fillings as their strength would diminish, and the chances of tooth cracking are high.
• Onlays restore the functionality of the mouth as they enable you to bite and chew food like you always do.
• Inlays offer good sealing properties. They completely fill the cavity and prevent the entry of microbes, thereby preventing reinfection.

How Are Inlays and Onlays Placed?

Ideally, it would take two appointments to place an Inlay or Onlay. During the initial consultation, the dentist will conduct a screening process to understand the severity of the oral condition. We will check for cavities, tartar accumulation, existing restorations, gum disease, etc., before confirming your candidacy for the procedure. Next, we would take oral scans to create a digital impression/mold of the teeth. This will be used as a reference for fabricating dental restorations.

During the next consultation, the teeth will be cleaned and prepared by etching their surface with a suitable etching liquid. The restoration will be placed on the tooth and checked for perfect fit and comfort. Once its contour and structure have been finalized, it will be bonded to the tooth using dental adhesives. They may be polished, and a bite test will be taken to ensure optimum bite.