When a tooth has damage or decay, a dental restoration can help protect it and get it back to working the way it should. Crowns are a common go-to, but dental inlays and onlays can offer a more conservative option in some cases. Knowing the differences between them can help you and your dentist land on the treatment that’s genuinely right for you.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that repair a damaged tooth without going the full crown route. An inlay fits neatly within the grooves of the tooth, while an onlay extends to cover one or more damaged cusps. Either way, you get your tooth restored without covering the whole visible surface.
How Do Inlays and Onlays Compare With Crowns?
The best option depends on the amount of tooth damage, the location of the problem, and the remaining healthy tooth structure.
Amount of Tooth Structure
Inlays and onlays generally preserve more of your natural tooth, since they call for removing less healthy enamel along the way. Crowns, on the other hand, cover the entire tooth above the gum line and usually need more tooth preparation to fit the way they should.
Level of Damage
Inlays are usually the right call when damage is limited to the inner portion of a tooth. Onlays step in when the damage reaches one or more cusps, but there’s still enough healthy tooth left to work with for a partial restoration instead of a full crown.
Strength and Protection
Crowns provide full coverage and can offer substantial protection for teeth with extensive damage. Inlays and onlays can also strengthen and protect a weakened tooth while preserving more of its natural structure.
Appearance
Both treatments can be made from tooth-colored materials that blend right in with your surrounding teeth. Your dentist can recommend the material that makes the most sense based on the tooth’s location, appearance, and how much wear and tear it needs to handle.
Treatment Considerations
Inlays and onlays are not suitable for every damaged tooth. A dental examination is necessary to determine whether enough healthy tooth structure remains for a partial restoration.
When Might a Crown Be a Better Option?
A dental crown tends to be the better fit when:
- A large portion of the tooth is damaged or missing.
- The tooth has extensive decay.
- The tooth is severely weakened or cracked.
- A previous large filling has compromised the tooth.
- Full coverage is needed to protect the remaining tooth structure.
- The tooth has undergone root canal treatment and needs additional protection.
Final Thoughts
Inlays and onlays can be a great alternative to crowns when a tooth has moderate damage but still has enough healthy structure left for a partial restoration. A dental professional can take a look at your tooth and recommend whatever option makes the most sense for you. South Star Dental is happy to walk you through your restorative treatment choices. Call (409) 777-0930 to schedule a consultation.