Waking up with an intense toothache is never easy. When you go to your dentist to resolve the issue, you may discover you have a painful cavity requiring restoration. While many patients assume fillings and crowns are the only way to remedy their pain, dental inlays and onlays are both also viable options. These restorations are often used to treat mild and moderate decay and can be custom-fit to your tooth, strengthening it by bonding directly to the surface.
At Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group, our specialists use high-quality materials to fabricate onlays and inlays. Our experienced professionals use state-of-the-art technology and will work with you to create a restoration that perfectly fits your tooth in order to bring back your confident and pain-free smile. We prioritize your health and comfort throughout the treatment process so you can leave our office 100% satisfied.
What Is the Difference Between Dental Inlays and Onlays?
While dental inlays and onlays are similar restorations that repair the chewing surface of a tooth, there are a couple of key differences. Dental inlays are used to repair the grooves of the teeth and are often used in place of fillings. On the other hand, onlays repair a larger surface on the tooth’s cusp, making them an alternative to crowns.
Inlays and onlays can treat several dental conditions, including cavities, cracked teeth, and damage caused by clenching and grinding. These restorations also use premium materials designed to withstand wear and tear. Depending on your needs, your dentist may recommend gold, composite resin, or porcelain for your inlay or onlay. The skilled specialists at Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group customize our treatment plans to fit your unique needs and will help you choose the best possible option for your dental restoration.
Benefits of Choosing Inlays and Onlays Over Fillings or Crowns
Because dental inlays and onlays can be more expensive than fillings and crowns, the decision to opt for these restorations should be considered carefully under the guidance of your dentist. However, a few advantages that inlays and onlays have over fillings and crowns include:
- Customization: Your inlay or onlay will be the exact size and shape of the area that must be restored. This can be an attractive option instead of a crown, which must cover the entire tooth instead of just the damaged area.
- No Expansion or Contraction: Many dental fillings expand and contract over time with temperature changes. This can cause the repaired tooth to crack, causing further damage. Inlays and onlays are made of materials that do not expand and contract over time.
- Durability: A dental filling or a crown typically lasts between five and 15 years. Inlays and onlays can last up to 30 years or more.
Whether you opt for a filling, crown, inlay, or onlay, our specialists will be with you throughout your treatment process to ensure your comfort and safety.
Schedule an Appointment With Our Surgeons Today
If you are considering an inlay or onlay in Elizabeth or the surrounding areas, look no further than Elizabeth Oral Surgery Group. Our founder, Dr. Nancy Herbst, has over 25 years of experience helping her patients restore their smiles with cutting-edge methods in a comfortable environment. We understand how important your teeth are to your overall oral health and will work with you to devise a treatment plan personalized to address your unique needs. When you choose us, you can trust your health is in the hands of an experienced and skilled medical professional.
To learn more about how we can help you, schedule an appointment by calling (908) 663-5309 or completing our contact form today.
