Dental inlays and onlays are helpful for protecting your damaged teeth. But with these two dental solutions having similar names, you might be curious about how well they can work for you. Dr. Edward Knight and the rest of the team at Knight Dental Care in Midland, MI want to help you understand how these treatments can protect your teeth.

What are dental inlays?

Dental inlays are small protective materials that can go on top of teeth. They are helpful for cases where a cavity is too large to be covered by a filling. The inlay will enter the pocket of the tooth’s crown at the top. The solid material will be shaped to fit the tooth, ensuring it will stay in place and feel natural. A cement compound will go around the inlay to keep it in place.

What are dental onlays?

Onlays are slightly larger than inlays, but they aren’t as massive as a crown. A dental onlay is a component that covers one edge of the tooth. This solution is for cases where the edge is damaged and not the pocket in the middle. The onlay also uses the same cement that works for an inlay to secure its position.

The onlay can be interpreted as a partial crown. It doesn’t replace the tooth altogether, but it adds a cover over a damaged area to prevent further losses. The design also restores the natural appearance of your tooth, allowing for a full shape that gives your smile a brilliant appearance.

Which dental repair is right for you?

You’ll require an inlay or onlay based on the amount of damage to your tooth. Our experts at Knight Dental Care in Midland, MI can review your tooth through dental x-rays that will produce a three-dimensional review of your tooth to determine how the inlay or onlay should be shaped.

Dr. Knight can start the process of adding an inlay or onlay after we determine which one you’lll require. We will prepare a suitable ceramic material for the inlay or onlay, and then clean the tooth to ensure the material can securely enter the space. The compound can also be polished as necessary to ensure the surface stays smooth and comfortable.

How long can this last?

Regardless of which material you require for your teeth, you’ll find your inlay or onlay will last for years. Your material can work for about 10 – 15 years, on average, before it requires a replacement. An inlay or onlay can last longer than a filling in many situations.

Learn about dental inlays and onlays in Midland, MI

Whether you require an inlay or onlay, you can request our services at Knight Dental Care in Midland, MI to help with either of these treatment solutions. Dr. Edward Knight and the rest of the team will review the situation with your teeth and find a plan that’s right for you. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in producing the smile you deserve.