Inlays & Onlays
Paradise Valley, AZ
 Inlays and onlays are used to treat posterior (rear) teeth with moderate decay, cracks, or fractures. When a tooth is too damaged to support a traditional dental filling, but not damaged enough to warrant a full dental crown, an inlay or onlay may be the ideal choice.
Inlays and onlays, also known as indirect fillings, are the same kind of restoration, but cover different portions of the tooth. An inlay is placed within the cusps of the occlusal (bite) surface. An onlay extends over one or more cusps or the entire bite surface of the tooth. You can think of an onlay as a partial crown.
At David R. Moyer, DDS in Paradise Valley, we believe inlays and onlays offer some advantages for patients who want a more conservative restoration. If you need a dental crown, an inlay or onlay could be the better choice.
The Inlay and Onlay Procedure
Inlays and onlays typically require two appointments to complete. During the first appointment, Dr. Moyer will remove previous fillings and any decayed tooth material. Once the tooth has been prepared, we take an impression of the area that needs restorative treatment. The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where they will fabricate your final restoration. This process could take a couple of weeks, so you may receive a temporary filling in the meantime.
During your second appointment, Dr. Moyer will place the final restoration, and check the margins to make sure the fit is correct. We may need to make some last minute altercations. Once we achieve the proper fit, the restoration will be bonded to the tooth using dental cement and an ultraviolet curing light.
The Advantages of Inlays and Onlays
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Durable: Inlays and onlays are made from tough materials that can last several decades.
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Aesthetically Pleasing: These days, most inlays and onlays are made using porcelain to best match the existing color of your tooth. If aesthetics are not an issue, they can also be made from composite resin or gold.
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Conservative: Inlays and onlays are a conservative option over dental crowns. Dental crowns require a complete reshaping of your tooth, including healthy enamel. Dr. Moyer only needs to remove decayed material to accommodate an inlay or onlay. A tooth is likely to have a longer lifespan when more of the natural structure is preserved. You are also less likely to need more dental treatment in the future.
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Structurally sound: Unlike traditional fillings, which may weaken your tooth, inlays and onlays can strengthen your teeth by up to 75%.
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Comfortable: Your inlay or onlay will only cover a portion of the tooth, making them a comfortable and minimally-invasive restoration.
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Convenient: Inlays and onlays can be cleaned like your regular teeth with daily brushing and flossing. You will not need to use any special appliances or techniques. |
Schedule an Appointment Today in Paradise Valley, AZ
If you are around Paradise Valley and in need of restorative treatment, call 480.935.6295, and schedule your appointment today! |
