Dental Inlays and Onlays In Bronxville, NY
Our team at Bronxville Dentistry offers a wide range of treatment options that help to restore the appearance and natural feel of a tooth. Dental inlays and onlays are often used to help repair teeth and create a personalized look. These are high-quality treatments that correct several different issues.
Continue reading on to learn more about dental inlays and onlays in the Bronxville, NY and surrounding area.
WHAT ARE DENTAL INLAYS AND ONLAYS?
Patients who are affected by cracked, chipped, or otherwise decayed teeth can benefit from dental inlays and onlays. They restore these problems by filling in the affected area and help to continue to keep the teeth protected and strong. Dental inlays are custom made with the help of your dentist to effectively fit over the unique grooves and crevices on your individual tooth. Dental onlays are used to repair a more substantial area that affects the cusps of the tooth, which is also known as the biting surface.
WHEN ARE DENTAL INLAYS OR ONLAYS NEEDED?
- Dental inlays are recommended for smiles that are affected by minor issues, including broken or decayed teeth. Your dentist may also decide to replace a large filling with an inlay. Large fillings increase the risk of a weakened structure that can lead to further damage. A small area of damage that does not need a dental crown could also benefit from an inlay.
- Dental onlays are similar to inlays, but they are often known as partial crowns. This is because they provide protection to a larger surface than inlays.
Both inlays and onlays can be made out of porcelain material that is natural to the look and feel of the tooth’s enamel. This allows our team to give a complete transformation for your smile in a practically invisible way.
If you are interested in learning more about the unique services we provide, then contact our Bronxville Dentistry team today. Call our dental clinic to set up your next consultation and see how we can quickly give you a total smile makeover with just one simple treatment. We look forward to seeing you for dental inlays and onlays in Bronxville. Schedule your appointment today!
FAQs
Inlays and onlays are both used to repair teeth that are damaged but not broken enough to need a full crown. An inlay is placed inside the chewing surface of a tooth and stays within its natural edges. An onlay covers a wider area and may extend over one or more raised parts of the tooth that take pressure when you bite. The choice depends on how much of the tooth is affected and where the damage is located. A dentist examines the tooth and bite to decide which option will provide better support.
An inlay is a custom-made tooth restoration that fits into a prepared area of a tooth after bacterial decay or damage has been removed. It is used when a standard filling would not be strong enough. The inlay is secured in place to help restore the tooth’s shape and allow it to function normally again. Because it is made outside the mouth and then placed, it can offer a more precise fit. A dentist recommends an inlay based on how much healthy tooth structure remains.
Most patients tolerate inlays and onlays well. Some temporary sensitivity to temperature or pressure can occur after placement, especially in the first few days. This usually improves as the tooth settles. As with any restoration, problems can develop if the fit or bite is not ideal, which is why follow-up matters. A dentist checks comfort and bite alignment and addresses concerns early to avoid ongoing issues.
Inlays and onlays are cared for much like natural teeth. Brushing thoroughly, cleaning between teeth, and attending regular dental visits help protect the tooth and surrounding areas. Paying attention to the bite and avoiding habits that put excessive force on teeth can also help. Routine checkups allow the dentist to monitor wear and catch small issues before they become larger problems.
An inlay or onlay may be recommended when a cavity or damaged area is too large for a simple filling, but the tooth is still strong enough to avoid a crown. These restorations allow more of the natural tooth to stay in place while providing added support. The decision depends on how much decay is present, where it sits on the tooth, and how the tooth functions during chewing. A dentist explains why this option may better protect the tooth long term.