Inlays and Onlays in Katy, TX

If you’re dealing with a damaged or decayed tooth, you may think your only options are traditional fillings or full dental crowns. However, there’s a solution that falls right in the middle: inlays and onlays. At Katy Lakes Dentistry, we provide high-quality inlays and onlays as an effective way to restore teeth that need more than a filling but less than a crown. If you want to achieve a healthier, more attractive smile, understanding the benefits and uses of inlays and onlays can help you make an informed decision about your dental care.

Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations used to repair teeth that have moderate damage or decay but still have enough healthy structure to avoid a full crown. They are sometimes referred to as “indirect fillings” because they are fabricated outside the mouth and then bonded to the tooth. While traditional fillings are molded into place during your visit, inlays and onlays are created in a dental lab for a precise fit and are made from durable materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin.

Inlays
Inlays are used to repair the surface of a tooth between the cusps (the raised points on the chewing surface). They are a great option for treating damage or decay that is confined to the central part of the tooth and do not require full coverage of the cusps.

Onlays
Onlays, also known as “partial crowns,” are used when the damage or decay extends to one or more of the tooth’s cusps. Unlike inlays, onlays cover a larger portion of the tooth’s surface, providing more support and protection.

Both inlays and onlays offer a conservative approach to restoring a tooth, allowing you to preserve more of your natural tooth structure compared to a full crown.

Inlays and onlays are an excellent restorative option for many reasons. Here are some of the key benefits of choosing inlays or onlays for your dental treatment:

• Strong and Durable: Inlays and onlays are made from strong materials that provide added strength to the damaged tooth, making them long-lasting and durable.
• Natural Appearance: Inlays and onlays are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile for a natural look.
• Conservative Treatment: Unlike crowns, which require more tooth reshaping, inlays and onlays preserve more of your natural tooth structure, allowing for a minimally invasive approach.
• Better Fit and Protection: Because inlays and onlays are custom-made, they provide a precise fit and seal, reducing the risk of future decay and protecting the tooth from further damage.
• Stain Resistant: Porcelain and ceramic inlays and onlays are resistant to stains, helping you maintain a bright and attractive smile.

Inlays and onlays are versatile restorations that can be used to address a variety of dental concerns. Here are some situations where an inlay or onlay may be recommended:

• Moderate Decay or Damage: If a tooth has decay or damage that is too extensive for a traditional filling but doesn’t require a full crown, an inlay or onlay can provide a durable and conservative solution.
• Fractured or Broken Teeth: Teeth that are cracked, chipped, or broken can be restored with inlays or onlays to improve both function and appearance.
• Large Fillings Needing Replacement: When an old filling is failing or has become too large, an inlay or onlay can be used to restore the tooth more effectively than a new filling.
• Enhanced Bite Strength: Onlays are often recommended for molars and premolars that endure heavy chewing forces. By covering the cusps of the tooth, onlays provide enhanced strength and protection.

The process of getting an inlay or onlay typically requires two visits to our office. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:

1. Initial Consultation and Tooth Preparation
   During your first visit, we will evaluate the damaged tooth and discuss your treatment options. If an inlay or onlay is determined to be the best solution, the tooth will be prepared by removing any decay or damaged structure. We will then take detailed impressions of your tooth to create a custom inlay or onlay that fits precisely.
2. Temporary Filling and Creating the Restoration
   After the tooth is prepared, a temporary filling may be placed to protect it while your inlay or onlay is being fabricated in a dental lab. This ensures that your tooth remains functional and comfortable between visits.
3. Fitting and Bonding the Inlay or Onlay
   During your second visit, the temporary filling will be removed, and the custom-made inlay or onlay will be checked for fit, color, and appearance. Once confirmed to be accurate, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to your tooth using a strong dental adhesive. The restoration will be polished and adjusted as needed to ensure a comfortable bite and natural look.