Understanding the Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

When it comes to restoring damaged or decayed teeth, inlays and onlays are versatile and effective dental treatments that offer a range of benefits. Because inlays and onlays aren’t discussed as often as fillings or crowns, many people don’t realize their full benefits — or even what they are!

Take a moment as Dr. Ed Trizzino and the team at Smiles of Atlanta define inlays and onlays and the many benefits they offer.

What are inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations that are designed to repair damaged or decayed teeth. Unlike traditional crowns that cover your entire tooth, these restorations cover only a certain part of your tooth.

Inlays fit within the grooves of your tooth, while onlays cover a larger surface area and extend over one or more cusps of your teeth.

Benefits of inlays and onlays

Whether you have a cavity or an otherwise damaged tooth, it’s important to review all of your options to make the best decision for your needs. All treatments have their own advantages, and inlays and onlays are no exception.

You might consider an inlay or onlay because:

Inlays and onlays preserve as much of your tooth structure as possible

Traditional dental crowns require significant removal of your tooth structure. That’s because your tooth has to be prepared for the crown to fit over it, and to do that, some of your enamel is removed.

Inlays and onlays are designed to preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible. This conservative approach helps maintain the structural integrity of your tooth while providing long-lasting support.

They fit snugly against your tooth

Inlays and onlays are different from fillings in another way. Fillings are made right inside your mouth at the time of treatment. This is a direct restoration. Inlays and onlays are created outside of your mouth based on impressions. This is known as an indirect restoration.

Because inlays and onlays are made from impressions, they fit perfectly against your natural tooth.

They’re aesthetically pleasing

Many people who need a crown or a filling are worried about the cosmetic issue of the telltale silver cap or silver filling. This is a major downside to amalgam-based fillings and crowns. Inlays and onlays blend in with your teeth so no one can tell you have one.

They don’t contain mercury

Amalgam fillings aren’t just visually concerning; they also contain mercury. As a holistic dentist, Dr. Trizzino prioritizes mercury-free dentistry. Smiles of Atlanta has been mercury-free for about 30 years, so your inlay or onlay won’t contain any mercury either.

This is a huge benefit considering mercury is one of the World Health Organization’s top 10 public health concerns.

They’re strong

Inlays and onlays don’t just look nice; they’re also strong. The materials that go into their fabrication, particularly porcelain and composite resin, are highly resilient and resistant to wear and fracture.

The American College of Prosthodontists takes it a step further, noting that the bonding process of an inlay or onlay actually helps strengthen your tooth. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep your inlays and onlays for many years.

They lead to less post-procedure sensitivity

Compared to traditional dental crowns, inlays and onlays typically result in less postoperative tooth sensitivity. This is because the procedure involves minimal removal of tooth structure, which helps preserve the tooth's natural protective layer, the enamel.

Experience an inlay or onlay for yourself

Whether you have a cavity or a damaged tooth, the Smiles of Atlanta team has what you need under one roof.

Expect to start with an initial consultation, where Dr. Trizzino examines your tooth and discusses the need for an inlay or onlay. If he determines that one is the best option for you, he prepares your tooth and removes any decay. You also need impressions and a temporary restoration to protect your tooth.

Once your final restoration is ready, you return to our office for a: