What’s The Difference Between An Inlay And An Onlay?

young man showing off his white smile

If you have tooth sensitivity or pain when you chew with your back teeth, the surfaces may be damaged. One option for restoration from The Yuma Dentist is the use of an inlay or onlay made of metal, composite resin, or porcelain.

Inlays are very strong and shaped to precisely fit a hole in a damaged tooth. The choice of an inlay or onlay depends on how much decay and tooth loss has developed.

An inlay resembles a filling and fills a small part of the tooth, while an onlay covers one or more of the cusps on the top of the tooth. In other words, an inlay fills a hole without changing the shape of the tooth, while an onlay builds up the tooth surface to restore its previous dimension.

The procedure begins with a comprehensive evaluation, an oral x-ray, and an impression. The damaged area will be removed and then the inlay or onlay will be formed to precisely fit your tooth and bite. While it is being made, your tooth will have a temporary restoration piece to cover and shield the vulnerable area.

Finally, the inlay or onlay will be placed and permanently bonded to the tooth. Since the procedure requires the removal of damaged tooth material, restoration fabrication at the lab, and placement on the tooth, it will take a few appointments to complete the process.

Inlays and onlays protect the tooth from further damage, provide natural function, and are durable and inconspicuous.

Dr. Roopinder Mann has been restoring teeth since 2012 for patients of all ages. The Yuma Dentist is located in Yuma though we treat patients from the surrounding communities. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry and porcelain veneers. Make your appointment today!

CONTACT THE YUMA DENTIST (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

THE YUMA DENTIST – PACIFIC AVENUE
1630 S PACIFIC AVE STE 104
YUMA, AZ 85365
928-783-0804

THE YUMA DENTIST – FORTUNA FOOTHILLS
11231 E COMMERCIAL CENTER LOOP STE 105
YUMA, AZ 85367
928-783-8300

Click to Text Our Front Desk Team

TEXT OUR OFFICE

Text message is limited to 160 characters.

HOW IT WORKS

  1. Enter your Name.
  2. Enter your Cell Phone Number, area code first
  3. Enter your text message in the box.
  4. Select which office you want to text.
  5. Click "Send Text"
  6. A copy of this text will be sent to the office and to your cell phone. The office's reply will also be sent to your cell phone where you can continue the text conversation.
Note: Mobile message and data rates from your cell phone carrier may apply.Close ClickToCall Button
NagiosCheckValue - Do not remove please