The Woodlands, TX 77384
(936) 321 - 1477
Dentistry in The Woodlands
Inlays / Onlays
When over 1/2 of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged, Dr. Barber may recommend an inlay or onlay.
An inlay or onlay can be made of porcelain or gold. The restoration is bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, which is similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth; an onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay but extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.
Traditionally, gold has been the material of choice for inlays and onlays. In recent years, however, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and color, which can closely match the natural color of your teeth.
How are they applied?
Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure. During the first visit, the filling being replaced or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. To fabricate the restoration, an impression is taken of the tooth and sent to a dental laboratory. Dr. Barber will then apply a temporary restoration to the tooth. You will then be scheduled for a placement appointment in approximately three weeks.
At the second appointment, the temporary restoration is removed. Dr. Barber will then make sure that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. If the fit is excellent, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to the tooth with a strong resin cement and polished to a smooth finish.
Considerations
Traditional fillings can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50%. As an alternative, inlays and onlays, bonded directly onto the tooth using special high-strength resins, can actually increase the strength of a tooth by up to 75%. As a result, they can last from 10 to 30 years. In some cases, where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to merit an entire crown, onlays can provide a very good alternative.
Beauty is the Natural Expression of Proper Function
From our state-of-the-art dental office in The Woodlands, Dr. Timothy Barber and our experienced team provide comprehensive dental care to patients from Conroe, Spring, and the greater Houston area. If you have questions or would like to reserve your consultation, second-opinion visit, or exam, call us today at 936-321-1477 or email us here.
Dr. Timothy M. Barber is a general and cosmetic dentist in The Woodlands, TX. His services include sleep apnea therapy, implant dentistry, smile makeovers, laser dentistry, porcelain veneers, sedation dentistry, Zoom! teeth whitening, and Invisalign clear braces. For more information, contact Dr. Barber's dental office in The Woodlands.