With the advent of advanced technology, dental restoration has seen a remarkable revolution in recent years. CEREC (Chairside Economical Restorations of Esthetic Ceramics) is one such innovation that enables dentists to provide same-day restorative solutions with unparalleled accuracy and convenience.
Marigold Dental uses CEREC technology to fabricate crowns, inlays, and onlays, providing a permanent, tooth-colored solution to restore your smile. Our inlays and onlays are made from durable, esthetic materials and then matched to the unique shade of your teeth for a natural look you’ll love.
What is the difference between dental inlays and onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays are effective restorative options for repairing damaged or decayed teeth. While they share similarities, there are some key differences between the two. Let’s explore the characteristics of each to help you understand their distinctions.
A dental inlay is a precision-crafted, solid restoration used to fill the space at the center of a tooth that’s been damaged by decay or injury, restoring its form, function, and strength. Inlays are typically used when the tooth’s structure is compromised, but the damage doesn’t extend over the tooth’s cusps (pointed parts). They are molded to fit within the tooth grooves, providing a durable and almost invisible restoration.
A dental onlay is also a custom-made restoration designed to repair damaged or decayed teeth. However, onlays are often larger than inlays and cover a larger surface area. They are used when the damage extends beyond the center of the tooth and involves one or more cusps. Onlays can be shaped and colored to match the natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking result.
The larger onlays allow them to provide more extensive coverage and support for teeth with significant damage. They are a suitable option when a tooth requires a restoration that goes beyond what an inlay can offer but doesn’t necessitate a full dental crown.
The Difference in Use
The primary difference between dental inlays and onlays lies in the amount of tooth structure they cover. Inlays are used when the damage is limited to the tooth’s center and doesn’t involve the cusps. Onlays, however, are used when the damage extends over one or more cusps.
Dr. Brar will evaluate the extent of the damage and help determine which restoration is most appropriate for your specific situation. Whether an inlay or an onlay is recommended, both options are more conservative than a dental crown because they preserve healthy tooth structure.
The Procedure
The process for receiving dental inlays or onlays is similar. Both restorations are fabricated in our office from digital impressions taken of your teeth. Once the restorations are milled with our CEREC, they are fitted and bonded to the damaged tooth.
This type of restoration is considered an indirect filling because it is created outside of your mouth rather than being molded directly onto the tooth during a dental visit. The advantage of this approach is that it allows for precise customization and a perfect fit.
What are the benefits of getting dental inlays or onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays offer numerous benefits for individuals seeking to restore damaged or decayed teeth. Here are a few reasons why you might consider this treatment option:
- Preservation of Healthy Tooth Structure: Inlays and onlays are designed to conserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible, offering a more conservative approach compared to traditional crowns.
- Enhanced Strength and Durability: Using high-quality materials, inlays and onlays provide exceptional strength and durability, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without worry.
- Improved Aesthetics: These restorations are carefully crafted to match the color and appearance of your natural teeth, resulting in a seamless and natural-looking smile.
- Longevity: Dental inlays and onlays are known for their longevity, providing you with a durable and reliable solution that can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
CEREC: A Game-Changer in Dental Restoration
In traditional dental procedures, patients require multiple visits to get their crowns, inlays, or onlays. However, these restorations can be completed in a single visit with the CEREC same-day crown system. This is made possible through the use of digital impressions and our in-house CEREC milling machine, which quickly fabricates the restoration out of ceramic material.
This saves the patient time and results in a more comfortable experience as it minimizes the tooth structure to be removed.
Single-Visit Crowns with CEREC
Dental crowns are recommended for teeth that have suffered significant decay or trauma. They can also strengthen teeth following root canal treatment. With CEREC technology, the tooth is first prepared, and then a digital impression is taken. This digital impression is then sent to a milling machine that fabricates the crown in minutes. Once ready, the crown is placed around the prepared tooth and cemented in place, all within a single visit.
Inlays and Onlays: Precise and Convenient with CEREC
Inlays and onlays, often referred to as indirect restorations, are traditionally made in a dental laboratory. CEREC technology is a game changer, allowing these fillings to be fabricated in the dental office, providing immediate restoration.
Inlays and onlays are used when the tooth decay or damage is too extensive for a filling but not severe enough to warrant a crown. Inlays are used when the tooth cusps are unaffected, while onlays are used when one or more cusps need restoration.
The process for creating inlays and onlays is similar to that of crowns. The dentist prepares the tooth, takes a digital impression, and the machine mills the inlay or onlay. Once the inlay or onlay is ready, it is cemented into place, resulting in a perfectly fitted and durable restoration.
What to Expect When Getting CEREC Inlays or Onlays
Are you considering dental inlays or onlays to restore your teeth and enhance your smile? At Marigold Dental, we offer advanced CEREC technology to provide you with a seamless and convenient experience. Our one-step appointment process saves you time without compromising on quality. Let us guide you through what to expect during your visit.
- Appointment Time: 1.5-2 Hours — Traditionally, the process of getting inlays or onlays involved multiple visits. However, Marigold Dental has streamlined the process into a single appointment by utilizing cutting-edge technology. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how efficiently we can restore your smile while respecting your busy schedule.
- Digital Scanning and Model Preparation: Our experienced dental team will begin by carefully removing any damaged tooth structure during your appointment. Next, we will utilize a state-of-the-art 3D digital scanner to create a precise digital model of your teeth. This advanced technology allows for accurate measurements and ensures a perfect fit for your inlay or onlay.
- Customized Design and In-Office Lab: Once the digital model is prepared, our skilled dental professionals will proceed to design your customized inlay or onlay. With the help of our in-office lab, we can create your restoration quickly and efficiently, ensuring optimal precision and quality. Our team takes pride in delivering superior craftsmanship to achieve the best possible results for your smile.
- Approval, Comfort, and Final Placement: After the fabrication of your inlay or onlay is complete, we will try it on to ensure a perfect fit and appearance. We value your input and will show you the restoration for your approval. Additionally, we will check for your comfort, ensuring that the restoration feels natural and comfortable in your mouth.
- Cementation and Continued Enjoyment: Once you are satisfied with the fit and appearance of your inlay or onlay, we will proceed with the final step. Our skilled dental professionals will carefully cement the restoration in place, ensuring its long-lasting stability and functionality. With your new inlay or onlay securely in place, you can confidently enjoy the rest of your day with a rejuvenated smile.
Experience Excellence at Marigold Dental
Marigold Dental is committed to delivering exceptional dental care and ensuring your utmost satisfaction. Our skilled team of professionals utilizes the latest technology, such as CEREC, to provide you with efficient and high-quality dental restorations. If you are considering dental inlays or onlays, we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today. Experience the convenience and excellence that set Marigold Dental apart.
If you need to fill teeth with dental inlays or onlays, schedule an appointment with Marigold Dental in Federal Way, WA, today to understand the benefits of dental inlays or onlays. Our friendly team is ready to provide you with exceptional care and guide you on your journey to a healthy, confident smile.
