When you visit the dentist to treat a chipped, fractured or damaged tooth, they may recommend a filling, dental inlay, onlay, or a crown. The choice will depend on the nature of the damage, the tooth’s location, and the patient’s expectations.
Our expert team explains the differences between different types of dental restorations to decide on the best choice.
Simple fillings are ideal for smaller cavities, while inlays are used when the cavity in question is too large for a simple filling. Fillings are usually made of amalgam or composite resin and tend to shrink a little over time, leaving gaps where bacteria may enter and cause cavities.
Dental inlays are fabricated as single, solid pieces that fit snugly to match the tooth’s shape and size. They are often made from gold or ceramic and last longer than fillings. One of the most significant advantages is that they do not shrink to the same extent as fillings. Inlays offer a more durable and resistant surface for chewing and biting than fillings.
Our dentist will cement the inlay into place carefully once the inlay is ready. Please contact our dentist to determine your unique requirement’s best dental restoration.
Onlays are bigger than inlays, but they are not as large as crowns. They extend outwards to cover one or more tooth cusps. On the other hand, Crowns work as a replacement for the entire tooth.
Onlays are used to restore larger tooth areas where inlays or fillings won’t work. Onlays cover more space, and like inlays, they are also fabricated as a single, solid piece. Crowns cover the cusps of the tooth and the surface above the gum line. While onlays are more cost-effective than crowns, they require skilled handling for perfect placement and aesthetics.
My Family Dental Taylor offers a comprehensive range of modern restorations, including crowns, implants, partials, dentures, veneers, inlays, and onlays in Taylor, MI.