How Are Inlays and Onlays Applied?

Inlays and onlays are excellent options to improve the health and appearance of your smile. They are ideal for average dental decay or damage that’s too large to repair with a dental filling but doesn’t require a crown. Sometimes, inlays and Onlays replace old or damaged fillings and restore as much as 75% of your tooth’s strength.

The difference between dental inlays and onlays

A dental inlay is placed inside the tooth’s cusps to fill the decayed area and protect the tooth from further damage. On the other hand, dental Onlays are fitted outside the cusps of the tooth. They are used when there’s more extensive damage to a tooth.

Regarding the material of your inlay or onlays, you have several options, like porcelain, composite, amalgam, and gold. Porcelain is an excellent option if you’re looking for a tooth material that will blend perfectly with your natural teeth and still offer good strength and durability.

While gold offers incredible strength and durability, it’s relatively expensive. Our dentist near you in Stony Brook will examine your eligibility for dental inlays and onlays and help you choose the right material for your restoration.

Dental Inlays and Onlays Procedure

Getting a dental inlay or Onlay takes about two appointments. The dentist will always begin by examining your tooth to determine your eligibility for the procedure.

If you have extensive damage, a dental crown might be necessary to reinforce your tooth and prevent future complications. If the tooth’s structure is highly damaged, the last resort would be to extract the tooth and replace it with a bridge or implant.

If you’re eligible for dental inlays and onlays, below are typical steps of what to express:

• The dentist will numb the area around the damaged tooth with a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable.
• The dentist will remove the old filling or the damaged parts of the tooth.
• Then, the dentist will take impressions or scans of your tooth and send them to a lab where the customized inlay or onlay is fabricated.
• As you wait for the inlay or onlay, the dentist will temporarily restore the tooth like a sealant to protect it until your next appointment.
• The dentist will numb your mouth on the second appointment to prevent discomfort.
• Then, they will remove the temporary restoration and clean the area.
• The dentist will then assess the fit of the customized inlay or onlay to ensure a perfect fit and bite.
• Once satisfied with the fit, the dentist will bond the inlay or onlay to the tooth.
• Lastly, the dentist polishes the tooth for a smooth and natural appearance.

Visit our dental clinic for inlays and dental overlays in Stony Brook, NY.

Dental Inlays and Onlays Aftercare

After your appointments, you’ll likely experience some sensitivity and discomfort around the treated tooth. Fortunately, these effects should subside after a few hours. Below are several inlay or onlay aftercare tips to keep in mind:

• Take medication as directed by your dentist. Over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help if you don’t have a prescription.
• Eat soft foods. Avoid hard, chewy, and crunchy foods as they can pull out your temporary or customized inlays or onlays. Do not eat or drink anything before the anesthetic wears off. You can accidentally hurt your tongue and cheeks or disturb the treated area.
• Avoid hot, spicy, and acidic items as they can irritate the treated area.
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene. Brush gently around the treated tooth
• Schedule routine dental checkups and cleanings.

Benefits of Dental Inlays and Onlays

• They repair tooth damage and protect your natural tooth from further damage.
• They improve the tooth’s strength and stability.
• They are durable.
• They preserve more of your tooth. Less enamel shaving is needed.
• They can blend with your natural teeth.
• They are quick, less invasive, and minimally painful to install.

Are You Interested in Dental Inlays and Onlays in Stony Brook, NY?

Do you have mild to extensive tooth decay or damage? Stony Brook Dental Group can help repair your teeth and improve their strength, lifespan, and appearance with dental inlays and onlays.