Sometimes, your mouth requires a more comprehensive restoration than a filling. At DMD Dental, our team will select the most conservative option to restore your smile’s health, appearance, and function.
What are Inlays, Onlays, and Crownlays?
Inlays, onlays, and crownlays are specialized types of restorations that can both protect and create the appearance of a whole tooth. They are custom-made and used in instances where decay covers a wider area of the tooth than a filling can treat.
- Inlays are a custom-designed mixture of ceramic and resin material that precisely fills a space inside the tooth between the cusps. They are fabricated to sit flush with the surface of the tooth, creating a complete appearance.
- Onlays are custom-designed ceramic materials that lay over one or more cusps of the tooth. They can restore a larger portion of the tooth than inlays.
- Crownlays are a hybrid between a traditional crown and an onlay. They’re utilized to minimize the amount of enamel that must be removed, leaving more natural tooth intact.
What are the Benefits of Inlays, Onlays, and Crownlays?
Inlays, onlays, and crownlays can restore the appearance and function of your teeth, keeping your mouth healthy. Chips, cracks, decay, and failing restorations can make your teeth vulnerable to bacterial infections. These restorations replace the lost anatomy of your teeth, remove the infection, and reestablish the shape and function without removing too much healthy structure, increasing the longevity of the tooth.
What Can I Expect From Inlays, Onlays, and Crownlays?
Dr. Du Mond will assess your oral health needs and determine the best restoration to accomplish your treatment. After preparation, a scan or impression of your teeth will be taken and sent to our lab for fabrication. Typically, the restoration is milled at your appointment and finalized the same day. If the restoration must be sent to the lab, you’ll return for a fitting appointment. Once the restoration is in place, Dr. Du Mond will check your bite and ensure it will function as needed.
The Inlays, Onlays, and Crownlays Process and Beyond
Inlays, onlays, and crownlays can last many years with proper care. The best way to preserve your restoration is by practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing twice daily and flossing regularly. It’s also important to eat hard and crunchy foods only in moderation. Nightguards also offer protection from movements at night that can fracture porcelain or ceramic. Finally, return for your regular professional cleaning to check the integrity of your restoration and ensure your mouth remains healthy.
Inlays, Onlays, and Crownlays in Scottsdale, AZ
To learn more about restorative options, contact our Scottsdale, AZ office by calling or filling out our online form.