Dental Inlays & Onlays in Sault Ste. Marie
Onlays cover more surface area than inlays and also wrap over one or more edges of the tooth.
What are dental inlays and onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made fillings that fit into decayed or damaged teeth. When your tooth is too damaged for a tooth filling or insufficiently damaged for a dental crown, your dentist may recommend inlays and onlays as an alternate solution.
What is the difference between inlays and onlays?
Inlays fit inside the cusps or bumps of your tooth, like a composite filling. Onlays are similar but cover more surface area and wrap over at least one edge of the tooth. Crowns are onlays that completely cover all surfaces of a tooth.
How does the inlay/onlay procedure work?
At Bay Dental Group in Sault Ste. Marie typically two appointments are required to fit dental inlays or onlays to your teeth.
At your first dental appointment, the old filling or decay is removed and the tooth prepared for the inlay or onlay fitting.
An impression is then made of the tooth and the impression is sent to a dental laboratory where a custom-made inlay or onlay is made. At this time, a sealant is placed on the tooth and your second dentist appointment is scheduled.
At your second dental visit, the sealant is removed and your Bay Dental Group dentist ensures a proper fit that will not interfere with your bite.
The inlay or onlay is then bonded into the tooth with a strong resin and polished smooth.
What materials are inlays/onlays made of?
Inlays and onlays typically come in porcelain, composite resin or gold. Your Bay Dental Group team will consult with you to determine the most appropriate material choice.