Inlays vs. Onlays: A Short Guide
Inlays and onlays can both help you restore a damaged tooth, but the terms can also lead to some confusion. Not only do they sound similar, but they’re also sometimes (rightfully) confused with a partial crown. Here, we’ll look at what they are and how they can be used to help you strengthen your teeth against everyday wear and tear.
Why Get an Inlay?
Most dentists will recommend an inlay when you need to cover the chewing surface of your tooth. Like a crown, inlays can be gold, metal, or resin, or porcelain, with each one offering its own advantages to the wearer. Inlays go into the groove of your tooth, as opposed to jutting over the tips.
What Is an Onlay?
An onlay will cover the entire surface of the tooth, as opposed to just the grooves. With an onlay, you get additional support from the structure which, like an inlay, can be made from gold, porcelain, or metal. If you’re wondering what the difference is between an onlay and a crown, the biggest difference is the prep work for the procedure. Onlays are considered more conservative, allowing patients to preserve the natural tooth as much as possible.
Which Material Is Better for Me?
Dentists typically recommend porcelain for inlays, onlays, and crowns in Mountain View, CA to patients because it’s both durable and adept at blending in with your natural teeth. If patients choose another type of material, like resin, it’s often because porcelain is more expensive.
When Will a Dentist Recommend One Over the Other?
A dentist in Mountain View, CA will typically recommend inlays or onlays if you have mild to moderate teeth damage. For example, if you clench your teeth at night, an inlay or onlay can help you reduce any damage you may have done. Or if you’re particularly sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks, an inlay or onlay may help you reduce sensitivity.
If you’ve noticed any changes to your teeth or you just have questions about how inlays or onlays, contact [practice_name] to start the discussion or schedule an appointment!
