Inlays and Onlays Crowns
Inlays and Onlays Crowns
Inlays and Onlays Crowns
- Both are types of indirect dental restorations used to repair damaged or decayed teeth.
- Inlays fit inside the grooves of a tooth, filling the space between the cusps (the raised points on the chewing surface).
- Onlays cover one or more cusps of the tooth, extending over the chewing surface but less extensive than a full crown.
Unlike traditional methods where they are made in a lab, inlays and onlays can now be fabricated chairside in the dental office using CAD/CAM technology. This allows the restoration to be designed, milled, and bonded in a single visit, preserving more natural tooth structure and reducing treatment time.
Benefits of Ceramic and Composite Materials for Chairside Inlays/Onlays
1. Ceramic (Porcelain) Inlays/Onlays:
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- Highly aesthetic — closely mimic natural tooth color and translucency.
- Strong and durable, resistant to wear and staining.
- Biocompatible and gentle on surrounding gum tissue.
- Ideal for larger restorations requiring strength and excellent appearance.
- Highly aesthetic — closely mimic natural tooth color and translucency.
2. Composite Inlays/Onlays:
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- Tooth-colored, offering good aesthetics.
- More flexible and less brittle than ceramic.
- Easier and quicker to repair if needed.
- Generally more affordable and suitable for smaller restorations.