When your tooth is too damaged to support a filling but not damaged enough for a dental crown, our Cosmetic Dentist in Buford, GA may recommend Dental Inlays or Onlays. Capping a damaged tooth unnecessarily with a dental crown removes more tooth structure than needed. But a large dental filling can weaken the remaining structure of the tooth, causing the tooth to break, crack or eventually need a root canal. Less costly than a dental crown and more durable than most dental fillings, Dental Inlays and Onlays are used to restore large cavities without having to use a crown.
Difference between Dental Inlays and Onlays:
Inlays cover the chewing surface between the cusps or rounded edges at the center of the tooth’s surface, while onlays covers one or more cusps or the entire biting surface of the tooth. Because of their extensive coverage, dental onlays are sometimes referred to as “partial crowns.”
The Dental Inlay and Onlay Procedure:
1st appointment: Our dentist prepares the tooth by removing any tooth decay. Once the tooth is prepared, an impression is made of the tooth’s structure and then sent to a dental laboratory. Depending on your budget and aesthetic needs, dental inlays/onlays can be made from gold, composite resin or porcelain. Since it will take a few weeks to create the inlay/onlay, our dentist will place a temporary dental filling to preserve the tooth.
2nd appointment: The temporary filling is removed and the dental inlay/onlay is cemented onto the tooth.
Dental Inlays and Onlays FAQs
How long do Dental Inlays and Onlays last?
Dental inlay/onlay can last up to 30 years if proper care is taken! Your best bet for preserving the life of any dental restoration is practicing excellent oral hygiene. Brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist regularly will have a significant outcome on the success of your dental inlay/onlay procedure.
What materials are used to create Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Depending on your choice of aesthetic appeal, longevity and your budget, our Buford Dentist may choose from materials such as gold, tooth-colored composite resin and porcelain to create an inlay or onlay. But regardless of the material used, inlays and onlays are often more durable than amalgam or composite fillings, less expensive than dental crowns and are not likely to have complications during the procedure.
How much do Dental Inlays/Onlays cost?
The cost of a dental inlay or onlay procedure depends on many factors, including: The tooth or teeth being worked on, the type of material used, and the size of the inlay or onlay. The average cost for inlays is $250 to $1,500, and for onlays, between $350 and $1,500.
Are Dental Inlays/Onlays covered by Insurance?
Insurance usually covers portion of the cost, and reimbursement rates vary between carriers and in different areas of the country. We will get a pre-treatment estimate from your insurance company to get a better idea of your insurance benefit.
Learn more about Dental Inlays and Onlays:
Click here to watch an educational video on dental inlays
Click here to watch an educational video on dental onlays