7DENTAL Central Park
Inlays & Onlays in Ottawa
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer a durable and custom-fit solution for teeth that have moderate damage or decay. These restorative options can help preserve more of your natural tooth structure than a full crown, providing a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing result. We are here to help you understand if this treatment is suitable for your smile.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations designed to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a traditional filling but not severe enough to require a full dental crown. An inlay fits within the cusps, or the bumps, on the chewing surface of your tooth. An onlay is a bit larger, extending over one or more of these cusps to provide broader coverage and protection.
These restorations are typically crafted from strong, tooth-coloured materials such as porcelain or composite resin, or sometimes from gold. They are precisely fabricated in a dental laboratory based on an impression of your tooth, ensuring a perfect fit that restores the tooth’s original shape and function. Unlike fillings, which are placed directly into the tooth during one visit, inlays and onlays are indirect restorations that are bonded to the tooth in a separate appointment.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Choosing inlays or onlays can offer several significant advantages for restoring your dental health. One of the primary benefits is their exceptional durability and strength. Because they are custom-made from robust materials, they can withstand chewing forces very effectively, often lasting longer than traditional composite fillings.
Their precise, custom fit also plays a crucial role in protecting your tooth. This snug fit helps to seal out bacteria and prevent further decay, reinforcing the tooth’s structure and reducing the risk of future fractures. Furthermore, inlays and onlays are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering a highly aesthetic solution that can enhance the appearance of your smile.
Who May Be a Candidate?
Patients who have teeth with moderate damage or decay often find inlays and onlays to be an excellent restorative option. If a tooth has sustained too much damage for a simple filling to effectively repair, but not enough to warrant the complete coverage of a dental crown, an inlay or onlay may be considered.
These restorations are particularly beneficial for restoring the natural shape of a tooth, strengthening weakened areas, and preventing potential fractures. During a consultation, our dental team can assess your specific situation and discuss whether an inlay or onlay could be the most appropriate and beneficial treatment for your oral health needs.
The Inlay and Onlay Procedure
The process for receiving an inlay or onlay typically involves two visits to our clinic. During your first appointment, we will begin by carefully preparing the affected tooth, which includes removing any decay or old filling material. Once the tooth is ready, we will take a precise impression of it.
This impression is then sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom inlay or onlay will be meticulously crafted to fit your tooth perfectly. A temporary restoration will be placed to protect your tooth while your permanent one is being made. On your second visit, once your custom restoration has arrived, we will carefully remove the temporary one and bond the permanent inlay or onlay securely to your tooth, ensuring a comfortable and accurate fit.
Your Comfort and Care
Your comfort is a top priority throughout any dental procedure at 7Dental Central Park. When preparing your tooth for an inlay or onlay, we will use a local anesthetic to ensure you remain comfortable and pain-free. Our team is dedicated to making your experience as relaxed and positive as possible.
We also use high-quality, biocompatible materials for our inlays and onlays, which are chosen for their durability and ability to integrate well with your natural tooth structure. We believe that providing excellent care involves not only the precision of the treatment but also ensuring your peace of mind regarding the materials used and the comfort you experience.
Caring for Your Restoration
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the longevity of your inlay or onlay, as well as for your overall dental health. We recommend continuing your routine of brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily to keep the restoration and surrounding tooth structure clean and healthy.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings at our clinic are also crucial. These appointments allow us to monitor the condition of your inlay or onlay and address any concerns promptly. Following these simple care tips, along with any specific instructions from your dentist, can help ensure your restoration remains strong and functional for many years.
New Patients Welcome