What Is an Inlay or Onlay?
Dental inlays are effective in concealing large cavities that can occur in between the cusps of tooth. Onlays are also very reliable restoratons for decayed teeth, repairing cusps that are severely damaged due to erosion or excessive wear.
What Is a Cusp?
To understand what inlays and onlays are it is first important to understand what the cusp of a tooth is. In dental terminology, the word cusp is used to describe an occlusal or incisal eminence of a tooth. Another way of saying this is, a cusp is a point on your tooth. Some teeth have a single point, like the ones in the front, some have multiple points, like your molars.
Indirect Dental Restorations
It’s also important to understand the difference between the two kinds of dental restorations—direct and indirect restorations. Indirect restorations are crafted outside the mouth of the patient, usually in a dental lab, using an impression or mold of the tooth to create a restoration that will fit perfectly into the tooth. Direct restorations are applied as a putty or resin to the tooth and shaped and molded within the confines of the tooth, like a dental filling. Inlays and onlays are indirect dental restorations.
The Process for Receiving Inlays and Onlays
The process for receiving an inlay or onlay is very similar to that of receiving a dental crown, which is another indirect dental restoration. The first step is to ensure the comfort of the patient by administering some local anesthetic and any sedation they prefer. Sedation isn’t necessary for the placement of inlay or onlays, but many find the process more comfortable under some light sedation. The second step is to prepare the tooth for the restoration with a special dental drill to remove the damaged portion of the tooth. The drill allows us to remove parts of the tooth that are infected by decay-causing bacteria, or parts of the tooth that have been damaged by physical trauma.
After the tooth has been prepared to receive the restoration, we will take an impression of the tooth that we will send to our dental laboratory, where they will craft a custom-made inlay or onlay for the tooth. We will place a temporary restoration in your tooth while we wait for the permanent one to be made at the dental lab. This will conclude your first visit.
When we receive the restoration back from the dental lab, it will be time for the second appointment. We will remove the temporary restoration and place the permanent one, being careful to make sure it fits properly within your tooth and your bite.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Inlays & Onlays
Where can I get dental inlays and onlays in Winchester, VA?
Shenandoah Family Dentistry provides dental inlays and onlays in Winchester, VA, at 1705 Amherst St#102 Winchester, VA 22601. The office welcomes patients from Winchester, Frederick County, Stephens City, Berryville, Front Royal, and nearby Northern Virginia communities.
What is the difference between a dental inlay and an onlay?
A dental inlay repairs damage or decay within the grooves and raised points of a tooth. A dental onlay covers a larger area and can restore one or more damaged cusps, which are the raised points used for chewing.
When are inlays and onlays used?
Inlays and onlays may be used when a tooth has a large cavity, decay between cusps, erosion, wear, or damage from trauma. They restore the affected portion of the tooth while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
What is a tooth cusp?
A cusp is the raised point on a tooth’s chewing surface. Front teeth may have one point, while molars have several. When a cusp is damaged, an onlay can restore its shape and function.
Are inlays and onlays different from fillings?
Yes. A filling is placed and shaped directly in the tooth during the appointment. Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations, meaning they are created outside the mouth by a dental lab after an impression is taken.
How long does it take to get an inlay or onlay in Winchester?
The process usually takes two appointments at Shenandoah Family Dentistry. During the first visit, the damaged portion of the tooth is removed, an impression is taken, and a temporary restoration is placed. The permanent inlay or onlay is bonded during the second visit.
Is getting an inlay or onlay painful?
Local anesthetic is used while the tooth is prepared to help keep treatment comfortable. Light sedation may also be available for patients who prefer additional help relaxing during the appointment.
How do I schedule an inlay or onlay consultation near Stephens City or Front Royal?
Call Shenandoah Family Dentistry at 540-773-0234 to schedule an evaluation in Winchester, VA. The team can examine the damaged tooth and discuss whether an inlay, onlay, filling, or another restorative option fits the condition of the tooth.
