Porcelain Inlays & Onlays Seminole FL – Restore Your Smile
At Boulevard Dental, our dental restorations are “built for the long haul.” The “magic” of long-lasting dental work is in the conservative nature of the treatments that Drs Wujick, Clark, and Castillo recommend to patients in Seminole and Greater Pinellas County, FL.
Porcelain inlays and onlays
Dental inlays and onlays are recognized as conservative alternatives to full-coverage crowns. In fact, onlays are known as “partial crowns,” as they cover the decayed portion of the tooth. They do not replicate the entire, visible part of the tooth seen above the gum line (the crown).
Generally, we recommend the most conservative treatments out of the options that may be available to our patients. These types of treatments preserve maximum healthy, natural tooth structure. While dentistry has advanced considerably in recent decades, no artificial tooth can exactly replicate the form and function of a natural tooth. The dental material introduced to the natural tooth depends on the existing structure for its strength and durability, which is yet another reason why tooth conservation and preservation techniques are ideal.
Inlays may be an appropriate option for patients who have decay that cannot be sufficiently treated with oral hygiene modifications and fillings. Large dental fillings are avoided because the filling would not provide adequate structure. The tooth would be vulnerable to premature damage and failure. As an indirect restoration, the inlay is made from dental ceramics such as porcelain. The ceramic is color-matched to the surrounding tooth structure. So, it blends in seamlessly. Once all damaged tissue is removed and the inlay is ready to be placed, it is applied to the decayed area of the tooth. Inlays are for modest damage. They fit inside of the cusps or points of the tooth.
Onlays are suitable for more extensive damage. They fit within the cusps, and they cover at least one tooth point. Depending on what we find during your exam, we may recommend an entire crown, root canal therapy followed by a full-coverage dental crown, or tooth replacement options such as bridges and dental implant-supported crowns and bridges.
Porcelain Inlays & Onlays FAQs
Dental inlays can be an appropriate treatment for patients with larger cavities. These cavities may not be properly repaired or supported by a simple filling. Inlays are also suitable when a chip, crack, or other trauma is isolated to the chewing surface and does not affect the cusps or points of the tooth. It can also be used to replace an existing filling that may have failed due to insufficient structure and coverage to protect, strengthen, and support the tooth.
Because onlays cover more of the tooth (at least one cusp or tip), they are generally preferred over inlays in cases where there is more extensive damage. This damage goes beyond the grooved surfaces and affects the raised edges. For instance, our dentists may recommend onlays when the cusps themselves are fractured or weakened. In such a situation, the inlay would have insufficient coverage or protection to strengthen the tooth and prevent further damage properly.
Dental onlays are a more conservative alternative to dental crowns. Dentists like to recommend more conservative options whenever possible. These treatments are preferred because they preserve natural tooth structure. They involve less alteration or removal of natural tissues. Onlays only replace the damaged portions of the tooth. The dental crown fully covers the tooth. To accommodate the crown, the natural tooth must be reduced in size and reshaped. This step is not necessary with onlays, which preserve much of the tooth and do not cover the entire white, visible structure of each tooth.
Sometimes a “partial crown” (onlay) does not provide the support necessary to restore the strength of the tooth. Since the crown fully replaces the visible portion of the tooth, it can provide adequate support when teeth are compromised due to very large cavities, significant decay, and severe fractures. Crowns may also be appropriate when teeth are weakened due to other treatments (such as root canal therapy) or repeated dental treatments.
Yes! One of the beautiful benefits of conservative procedures is that they make use of natural tooth structure. Because they are bonded or secured directly to the tooth, inlays and onlays are highly durable. As with all restorations, though, it is essential to take good care of them.
Practice excellent oral hygiene, visit us regularly for professional cleanings and exams, and avoid/manage any habits that could damage your dental work (i.e., consult with us about custom-fit nightguards for teeth grinding).
No. Like fillings, these treatments require some natural tooth structure for the material/restoration to adhere to, so they are not an alternative for individuals with missing teeth or for those whose teeth can’t be preserved. As such, these treatments can help prevent tooth loss, but they are not an option for replacing teeth that are already gone or will require extraction.
This dental ceramic is the perfect blend of beauty and brawn. It can be precisely shade-matched to the surrounding tooth structure. Porcelain looks more natural than other materials because of its unique properties, such as its enamel-like ability to reflect light. It resists stains and wears well, too, so patients can enjoy a natural, attractive appearance and solid function for many years.
The earlier we can intervene with damage or tooth decay, the less extensive, time-consuming, and costly the treatment required to restore the tooth to a healthy appearance and function. So, call us today to schedule your appointment at our office in Seminole at (727) 308-6224.
