When you have a chipped, cracked, or damaged tooth, you want a dentistry treatment that improves both the function and appearance of your smile. At Badea Dental, we provide many different cosmetic and general dentistry services that address dental problems, including small chips and cracks.
Dental inlays and onlays are separate but similar tooth restoration treatments. They are often thought of as a middle option between a dental filling and a more extensive treatment like a crown or dental implant.
Contact Badea Dental to request a consultation with Dr. Luana Badea or to learn more about inlays and onlays.
What Are Dental Inlays?
Dental inlays are similar to dental fillings, but a bit more extensive. They are usually made of ceramic, porcelain, or composite resin, and they match the shade of your natural teeth. These procedures can fix issues with your teeth to bring you increased comfort and a smile you feel happy to show off.
The dental inlay repairs holes left behind from a tooth injury or decay. Because they mold into the damaged tooth area precisely, inlays are more secure than a dental filling.
Dental inlays can also repair larger cavities and chips than a dental filling can—a good option if you have more significant tooth damage.
What Are Dental Onlays?
Onlays are also made of porcelain or resin composite. While the process and materials are similar, onlays are different from inlays. Dental onlays repair teeth with damage or decay on the cusps of a tooth. They strengthen the tooth to prevent further breakage.
Onlays are bigger than inlays. The dental onlay covers the edges, or cusps, of the tooth, while an inlay fills the area between the cusps. However, if the damage is more extensive or the tooth needs to be removed, an alternative treatment like a dental crown or implant could be a better fit.
How Do I Know if I Need in Inlay or Onlay?
The main difference between dental inlays and onlays is the position of the restoration material. With an inlay, the material goes in the middle of the tooth to repair pits and cracks. With an onlay, the material goes over the cusps of the teeth, acting more like a cap.
So, whether you need an inlay or an onlay depends on the location of your tooth damage. Book a consultation with Dr. Badea, to determine which dental restoration option is best for you.
Book an Appointment at Our Austin Office!
Whether you need an inlay, onlay, or any other restorative procedure, we are here to help. From tooth-colored fillings to dental crowns, we offer a range of treatments to ensure you have a functional and healthy smile that you love to show off.
If you have questions about these procedures or would like to request a consultation, feel free to reach out. We are accepting new patients of all ages in the Austin area.
Call us or send a message online to request your appointment!