Inlays and onlays are designed to repair molars that have suffered moderate damage or decay. These tooth-colored restorations are appropriate when damage is too extensive to be addressed with a filling, but not severe enough to require a dental crown. Dr. Jerry Hancock in Nashville, TN, is proud to provide custom inlays and onlays that are both durable and aesthetically appealing. He can match the shade of your restoration to surrounding teeth to enhance the appearance of your smile. During your consultation, Dr. Hancock can assess your smile to determine if this restorative treatment is right for your needs.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays may be referred to as partial crowns and are designed to treat decay, repair cracks, strengthen compromised teeth, and reinforce a failing restoration. Larger than a standard filling, an inlay fits within the cusps, or edges of the chewing surface of a molar. An onlay, on the other hand, extends over one or more of the cusps to restore the integrity of the tooth. Unlike a dental crown, inlays and onlays do not cover the entire tooth. In addition, these restorations do not require extensive modification to the tooth enamel, enabling us to conserve more of the natural structure of your smile.
Dr. Hancock can review your unique oral health needs, before recommending the most conservative treatment to successfully address your concerns.
An inlay fits between the cusps of the tooth, whereas an onlay extends over one or more cusps to strengthen the tooth structure.
Initial Treatment
Dr. Hancock can review your unique oral health needs, before recommending the most conservative treatment to successfully address your concerns. If he determines an inlay or onlay is appropriate, he can begin by numbing the tooth with a local anesthetic. Dr. Hancock can then remove damaged tissue to prepare your tooth for the restoration. Next, Dr. Hancock can take impressions of your teeth, which will be sent to a trusted dental laboratory and used for fabrication. Over a period of two weeks, lab technicians can carefully manufacture your restoration, following the measurements noted and shade selected by Dr. Hancock. While you wait, we may supply you with a temporary restoration.
Restoration Placement
When your inlay or onlay is ready, you can return to our office for placement. After removing the temporary restoration, Dr. Hancock can ensure your final restoration fits correctly and does not impact the force or balance of your bite. If no alterations are required, he can bond the inlay or onlay to your tooth and polish it for a natural look and feel.
High-Quality Restorations
Dr. Hancock is proud to offer tooth-colored inlays and onlays made of the highest quality material, which is extremely durable and can withstand the constant force and pressure of chewing. Our restorations are designed to mimic the translucency of natural teeth, providing an appearance that is similar to real enamel. At our practice, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the latest materials and the most advanced care to ensure their satisfaction.
Contact Us to Learn More
If you are suffering from dental damage or decay, Dr. Hancock can determine which of our restorative dentistry treatments can best correct your oral health issue. Find out why so many in the community have chosen Dr. Hancock for their oral health needs. Call us today at (615) 313-0132, or fill out our online form.