Inlays and Onlays in
Clarksville

Inlays and onlays refer to two very similar dental restoration procedures that are designed to repair the chewing surfaces of damaged teeth. These procedures are unique in that they are used when damage is too great to be treated with a traditional crown, but they save more of the structure than using a full dental crown. Even though some or all of the tooth’s chewing surface will be replaced, the remaining structure will be left strong and intact.

One of the best aspects of inlays and onlays is that they add to the overall strength of teeth. After this procedure, you will have no problem chewing food and speaking clearly, and the overall health of the tooth will be restored. The new chewing surface will also help protect against any interior infections or issues later on. Additionally, the tooth will regain its original healthy appearance, and most others will have no way of recognizing that the tooth was ever even damaged in the first place.

Inlays and onlays are also known as indirect fillings. Unlike traditional fillings, inlays and onlays are custom-made outside of the mouth based on the patient’s damaged tooth.

The restoration will blend-in seamlessly with the other teeth, and it will provide the best possible performance.

The main difference between an inlay and an onlay is that an onlay will cover at least one of the tooth’s cusps, also referred to as points. In some cases, an onlay will actually cover all of these points and replace the tooth’s entire chewing surface. An onlay, on the other hand, is only used to repair damage between the points of the tooth. Both will last for many years if proper maintenance and care are provided. This includes brushing and flossing daily and receiving complete dental checkups regularly.