Inlays and onlays are sometimes referred to as partial crowns. These partial crowns are utilized when there is still a healthy enamel portion of the tooth. An inlay or onlay is a like a puzzle piece that will be fitted into the remaining portion of the tooth to help increase its strength. This piece is usually crafted out of porcelain, which we design with our new CEREC machine, and mill the porcelain in the office and you receive the final restoration that day. ONE VISIT DENTISTRY at its finest!
An inlay is used when there is not damage to any of the cusps of your tooth and is essentially place within these cusps. An onlay is used when there is slightly more extensive damage to the tooth structure. This type of restoration is placed over at least one of the cusps on the tooth.
Procedure
When Dr. Fleming decides to go ahead with an inlay or onlay, we will set aside just 1 appointment for the entire process.
The procedure begins with the removal of all decay in the tooth. Once we have removed the decay, we will take an optical impression of the tooth with our CEREC camera. This impression will be sent to the computer, where your new restoration will be designed with this amazing technology.
Once the inlay/onlay has been milled, we will proceed with the placement of your final restoration. The inlay/onlay will be fitted comfortably into the mouth. We will make every effort to ensure that the new restoration feels exactly like one of your natural teeth. The final step in the process is to cement the inlay/onlay into your mouth, leaving you with a beautifully restored smile.
The CEREC machine is what sets this practice apart from all the rest. This is the future of dentistry and we have it now for you!