Dental inlays and onlays are lab-processed restorations (fillings) used to replace missing tooth structures. An onlay covers the tooth’s cusps, whereas an inlay will not include the top of the cusp.
About inlay and onlay dental restoration
In the indirect method, the dentist removes all the tooth decay to capture the contour of the targeted tooth. The putty material is sent to a lab, and a temporary filling is applied to the affected tooth. The temporary filling is replaced with an inlay or onlay in the next visit. Occlusion is examined and modified as necessary.
In the direct method, the material used for inlay or onlay is filled in the tooth cavity after removing tooth decay and preparing the targeted tooth. A curing light helps harden the material, and occlusion is examined and modified as necessary.
Since the procedure requires multiple patient visits and good laboratory support, you’re advised to rely on the best dental doctor in Madurai.
Who qualifies for the procedure?
Any dental specialist in Madurai will recommend inlay and onlay if your teeth have the following issues:
- Severe decay
- Lack sufficient crown height
- Supra-erupted
- Gum disease
- Severely worn down
Who can perform inlay and onlay dental restoration?
During your first appointment, a dental specialist in Madurai will remove the decayed enamel and place putty over the tooth to make an impression. A temporary filling is installed, and the entire process takes between 60 and 90 minutes.
During your next visit, the dentist will remove the temporary filling and bond the inlay or onlay to the tooth. The treated area will hurt for 4 to 7 days after the procedure.
Why is inlay and onlay restoration done?
Inlays and onlays help increase the tooth’s life as they are made from durable materials.
Visiting the best dental clinic in Madurai is a reliable way to understand if you need the procedure. You can book an appointment with an Apollo dental specialist here.
What are the benefits of inlays and onlays?
- Both are customisable
- They do not expand or contract at different temperatures
- They look just like your teeth (unless you get metal options)
- The procedure is comparatively less intrusive
What are the downsides of inlays and onlays?
- Time-consuming to prepare
- Cost the same as a crown and are more expensive than fillings
- A dental specialist in Madurai will not recommend these if you grind their teeth
- Excessive margin exposure demands perfect oral hygiene
Conclusion
Inlays and onlays are used like fillings to repair damaged teeth and restore their strength and functionality. They differ from normal fillings in that they are explicitly produced in a lab for each tooth before being fixed into the mouth cavity.
To assess your oral health, request an appointment at Apollo Dental, Madurai, by dialling 1800 1020 288 or our site.
