Inlays and Onlays in Kitchener, ON

What are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are types of dental restorations used to repair decayed or damaged teeth when the damage is too big for a filling but not big enough for a crown. Inlays are placed within the cusp of a tooth, onlays extending over one or more cusps. They are often made of porcelain material which matches the natural tooth in color and strength. Unlike fillings, inlays and onlays are custom-fit to ensure a more precise and long-lasting restoration. Their stain-resistant properties and ability to blend in with your natural teeth make them a patient favorite.

Inlays and onlays are made using a laboratory process to fit perfectly into the prepared space in your tooth. This is particularly useful for back teeth that are weakened and a filling won’t provide enough support. Inlays and onlays preserve the maximum amount of healthy tooth structure and is a conservative way to repair significant damage.

Our Inlays and Onlays Services

At Forest Hill Family Dental we offer full inlays and onlays services to get your teeth back to optimal health and appearance. Whether you have tooth decay, crooked teeth or significant damage our experienced dental team will guide you through the whole process from tooth preparation to final placement. We use high-quality porcelain material to create long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing restorations that blend in with your natural teeth. We want your restored tooth to look great and function great for years to come.

Inlays and Onlays

• • Porcelain Inlays: Porcelain inlays are custom-made to fit within the cusp of your tooth. They are very durable and a natural-looking restoration that matches the color and translucency of your natural teeth. Porcelain inlays are stain-resistant so perfect for those who want to keep their smile bright.
  • Porcelain Onlays: Porcelain onlays extends over one or more cusps of the tooth, providing extra coverage for damaged or decayed areas. These are used when the damage is too big for an inlay but not big enough for a crown. Like inlays, onlays are custom fit and natural looking.
  • Composite Resin Inlays: Composite resin inlays are a more affordable option than porcelain inlays. They are custom-made but use a composite material that can be color-matched to your tooth. Not as durable as porcelain but still a strong and aesthetically pleasing restoration.
  • Composite Resin Onlays: Similar to composite inlays, composite onlays are a cost-effective way to restore decayed and damaged teeth. These onlays extend over the cusp of the tooth providing extra support and protection. Perfect for patients looking for a durable and natural-looking restoration at a lower cost.
  • Gold Inlays and Onlays: Gold inlays and onlays are known for their durability and longevity. Although less common due to their visible appearance, gold restorations are great for patients with significant damage who prioritize function over aesthetics. Gold inlays and onlays can last for many years with proper care.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays have many benefits for patients who want to restore their oral health without compromising their smile. These restorations are a strong and durable way to repair decayed teeth while preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. They are custom-made to fit precisely so a comfortable and secure fit that blends in with your existing teeth. In addition, inlays and onlays are stain resistant so perfect for those who want to keep their smile bright and natural looking.

5 Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

• • Conservative Restoration: Inlays and onlays require less tooth preparation than crowns so more of your natural tooth structure is preserved. This conservative approach helps to keep your tooth strong and intact while restoring its function and appearance.
  • Durability and Strength: Made from high-quality materials like porcelain or gold inlays and onlays are very durable and can withstand the forces of chewing and grinding. Perfect for restoring weakened back teeth that need extra support.
  • Natural Looking: Inlays and onlays are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth for a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result. The porcelain material used in these restorations is very translucent so it looks like your natural teeth.
  • Stain Resistant: Porcelain inlays and onlays are stain-resistant so you can keep your smile bright and beautiful over time. Perfect for patients who consume stain-causing foods and drinks like coffee, tea, or red wine.
  • Custom Fit and Comfort: Inlays and onlays are made to fit your tooth precisely so a comfortable and secure fit. The laboratory process used to make these restorations ensures they fit exactly into the prepared space so there’s no discomfort or complications.

Inlays and Onlays at Forest Hill Family Dental

At Forest Hill Family Dental our inlays and onlays procedure is quick and comfortable so you get the best possible outcome for your oral health. The process takes 2 visits to our office, we make a custom fit restoration for your specific needs. During the first visit, our dentist will prepare the tooth by removing the decay and shaping it to fit the inlay or onlay. An impression of the tooth will be taken and sent to the laboratory where your restoration will be made. Once the inlay or onlay is ready you will return for a second visit and the restoration will be bonded to your tooth with dental cement.

Inlays and Onlays Procedure

1. 1. Consultation and Exam: During your first visit our dentist will examine your teeth to see if inlays and onlays are the best option to restore your decayed or damaged teeth. X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of the damage and plan the treatment.
   2. Tooth Preparation: The tooth is prepared by removing the decayed or damaged portion so a clean surface for the restoration. This step requires less tooth preparation than other restorative options like crowns so more of your natural tooth structure is preserved.
   3. Impression and Temp: An impression of the prepared tooth is taken and sent to the laboratory where your custom inlay or onlay will be made. A temp will be placed on your tooth to protect it until the final restoration is ready.
   4. Laboratory Process: The laboratory uses the impression to make a custom fit inlay or onlay to match the shape, size and color of your natural teeth. This takes a few weeks and in the meantime, your temp will protect your tooth.
   5. Final Placement and Bonding: Once the inlay or onlay is ready you will return to our office for the final placement. The restoration is bonded to your tooth with dental cement so it’s a secure and durable fit. Our dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite is comfortable and the restoration looks natural.

Why Choose Forest Hill Family Dental for Inlays and Onlays in Kitchener

Choosing the right dental practice for your inlays and onlays is key to a successful and long-lasting restoration. At Forest Hill Family Dental we pride ourselves on personalized care for each patient. Our experienced team uses the latest technology and high-quality materials to make functional and aesthetically pleasing restorations. We know visiting the dentist can be intimidating so we strive to make our office a warm and comfortable environment for all our patients. When you choose us for your inlays and onlays you can rest assured you’re in good hands.

Why Forest Hill Family Dental

• • Experienced Team: Our team of dentists have years of experience in inlays and onlays so you can be assured of the highest level of care. We stay up to date with the latest in dental restorations so you can be sure you’re getting the best treatment.
  • High-Quality Materials: We use only the best materials like porcelain and composite resin to make durable and natural-looking inlays and onlays. We stand by our quality so your restoration will look great and last for many years.
  • Personalized: At Forest Hill Family Dental we know every patient is unique. We take the time to listen to your concerns and customize our treatment plan to fit your needs so you have a comfortable and successful outcome.
  • Comfort: We know visiting the dentist can be intimidating so we try to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Our friendly and caring team is here to support you every step of the way so your visit is a good one.

FAQs

At Forest Hill Family Dental we know you may have questions about inlays and onlays. Below are some questions we get from our patients along with the answers to help you understand this restorative option better.

Q: What’s the difference between an inlay and an onlay?

An inlay is a restoration that fits within the cusp of a tooth, an onlay fits over one or more cusps. Both are used to repair decayed or damaged teeth but the choice between them depends on the extent of the damage. Inlays are for smaller areas of decay, and onlays are for larger areas of damage.

Q: How long do inlays and onlays last?

Inlays and onlays are durable and can last for many years with proper care. Porcelain and gold inlays and onlays are the most resistant to wear and tear. However, the longevity of your restoration also depends on your oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups.

Q: Is the inlay and onlay procedure painful?

The inlay and onlay procedure is not painful as it’s done under local anesthesia to numb the area being treated. Patients may feel some discomfort during the tooth preparation but that’s usually minimal. After the procedure, any mild discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Q: Can inlays and onlays be used on front teeth?

Inlays and onlays are used on the back teeth where they provide extra support and durability. However, in some cases they can be used on front teeth if the tooth needs a conservative restoration and aesthetics are a concern. Your dentist will determine what’s best for you.

Q: How do I look after my inlays and onlays?

Looking after your inlays and onlays is the same as looking after your natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure the restoration is in good condition. Don’t bite down on hard objects or use your teeth as tools to prevent damage to your inlays and onlays.

Book A Consultation Today!

Ready to get your smile restored with inlays and onlays in Kitchener, ON? At Forest Hill Family Dental we can help you get the healthy beautiful smile you deserve. Our experienced team will work with you to customize a treatment plan for your needs so you have a comfortable and successful outcome. Don’t wait to get started. Book a consultation with us today at 519-578-1300 or contact us.