A cosmetic dentist can use inlays and onlays in situations where a crown might be undesirable or unnecessary. Inlays strengthen the tooth's existing structure, and onlays cover the cusp of the tooth. Both are bonded on to restore tooth integrity and functionality in a natural-looking way.
Inlays and onlays achieve many of the same results as crowns, to the extent that they are sometimes referred to as partial crowns. All these types of tooth restoration strengthen damaged teeth and look natural, but inlays and onlays differ from crowns in a few key ways.
Crowns cover the entire tooth to the gum line and can be used to cap teeth that have suffered extreme damage or even as replacements for missing teeth. Inlays and onlays are placed, respectively, in or on the existing tooth. Patients can be recommended these treatments as an alternative to crowns if the tooth structure is still intact. Both procedures restore full functionality and appearance to a patient's tooth, but the crown covers the tooth entirely whereas inlays and onlays work with the existing tooth structure.
Inlays and onlays can be made of a variety of materials, including gold, ceramic, porcelain, or resin, the same as crowns. In the past, gold crowns and inlays were more common, but nowadays most patients opt for porcelain, resin, or ceramic. These materials can be colored to look indistinguishable from a patient's natural teeth. They are also very durable, lasting for years at a time, and require no more maintenance than regular teeth.
Inlays, onlays and crowns all require a thorough examination and cleaning of the patient's teeth. This involves the removal of decay as well as any weak part of the tooth. Crowns have specific requirements in this regard because they have a minimum thickness. After this step the cosmetic dentist will have a good idea of the state of the tooth and will move on to taking impressions. A bite registration is also recorded so the dentist can know how the patient's teeth are aligned.
The procedure for inlays, onlays, and crowns is very similar. Many cosmetic dentists have a milling machine in the office that can mill all three pieces. This allows for single-visit restorations. At an appointment, pictures are taken for the CAD/CAM milling machine. Then the piece is milled on site quickly enough for the cosmetic dentist to bond it before the patient leaves.
If an office does not have a milling machine, the patient can make two visits. During the first, pictures are taken, and a second appointment is scheduled after the new inlay, onlay, or crown arrives from the lab. In this case the patient is fitted with a temporary crown in between visits.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Cosmetic Dentist Inlays and Onlays in Madison, MS
Inlays and onlays can be used as a viable alternative to crowns if a patient has a salvageable tooth structure. Patients should consult with a cosmetic dentist to find the solution that is most desirable and suitable for them.
Request an appointment or call Dental Care of Madison at 601-898-9390 for an appointment in our Madison office.
When you look in the mirror, do you wonder what it would be like to have a bright, white smile? If so, you are not alone. At Dental Care of Madison, we are often asked by patients in Madison whether professional teeth whitening is really worth it. The answer is a resounding "yes." We've seen…
A dental emergency can happen without warning, but you can always rely on our team at Dental Care of Madison for exceptional care in the event it does. Our dedicated dentists and compassionate team are pleased to offer emergency dental care, providing you with the care you need right away, relieving your discomfort, and getting…
You bite down on your favorite candy, and the next thing you know, you're dealing with a cracked tooth. This common tooth injury can range from a minor cosmetic concern to a serious dental health problem that can impact the long-term health and function of your smile. At Dental Care of Madison, we offer a…
Maybe you've been wanting to align your teeth for years, but the thought of metal brackets, wires, and months of adjustments has kept you from taking that step. You are not alone. Many teens and adults in Madison turn to clear aligner therapy, a discreet, convenient, and comfortable solution to address a wide range of…
Starting with a new dentist can feel a little uncertain, especially if it has been a while since your last visit. What will they ask? How long will it take? Will anyone actually listen to your concerns? These are questions we hear all the time. At Dental Care of Madison, we want you to feel…