Inlay & Onlay in Washington DC

When more than half of the tooths biting surface is damaged a dentist will often use an inlay or onlay.

What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, which shape 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. Inlays and onlays are used in the place of fillings where the strength needed exceeds that which a basic filling can offer.

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 potentially match the natural color of your teeth. When properly created, tooth-colored inlays and onlays are invisible in teeth.

How are they applied?
Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure. During the first visit, the filling is replaced or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. To ensure proper fit and bite, an impression of the tooth is made by Dr. Markowitz, and sent to a lab for fabrication. Dr. Markowitz will then apply a temporary sealant on the tooth and schedule the next appointment.

At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed. Dr. Markowitz will then make sure that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. Once the fit is verified, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.

Considerations

Traditional fillings can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50 percent. As an alternative, inlays and onlays, which are bonded directly onto the tooth using special high-strength resins, can actually increase the strength of a tooth by up to 75 percent. 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.

Inlays and Onlays Photo Gallery

Problem:  Old silver filling with fractures and decay.
Solution:  Tooth colored ceramic onlay.