If you have severe tooth damage, you might think the only options for restoration are a crown or to extract the tooth and implant a replacement. However, there may be another option, one that is much more conservative — dental inlays and onlays.
Dental inlays and onlays, also known as indirect dental fillings, may be thought of as a middle ground between a traditional tooth filling and a dental crown. Indirect dental fillings work similarly to a traditional filling but are made in a lab then cemented onto the teeth, rather than shaped directly in the mouth.
Indirect dental fillings may be a good option for those who wish to preserve more of their natural tooth structure. Dental inlays and onlays may also be a more affordable choice, can offer more natural tooth function, and are able to fix problems not suited to traditional fillings.
If you’re searching for dental care that considers all options and is centered on you, the patient, think Absolute Dental in Reno.
Call (844) 8-SMILE-NOW or fill out the form to make an appointment today!
Dental inlays and onlays are used in cases of severe tooth damage or decay where a traditional filling is insufficient and a crown is unnecessary.
With a traditional filling, tooth decay is drilled out by a dentist, the empty space is filled with amalgam or another material, then the filler is shaped and hardened directly in the mouth.
Inlays and onlays begin the same way by removing the decay, but like a crown, the filling is custom made in a lab then later bonded to the teeth.
The biggest difference between a traditional filling and an inlay or onlay is that traditional fillings are shaped and hardened in the mouth, while inlays and onlays are first created in a lab. This process allows for larger fillings and for fillings that would otherwise be unsuitable.
Additionally, the difference between inlays and onlays is their size and location. An inlay lays between the bumps or peaks in the molars, officially known as cusps. An onlay covers one or more of the tooth cusps. Inlays and onlays are most often used in the back of the mouth at the molars.
Why Choose Conservative Restorative Dentistry?
In almost all medicine, including dentistry, the most conservative treatment that is sufficient, and with everything else being equal, is usually best. Conservative treatments mean treatments that have the lowest risk, the lowest cost, and are less aggressive than other approaches.
When you choose dental inlays or onlays, you’ll be able to preserve more of your natural tooth structure over other methods. With a dental crown, the dentist will have to remove more of your tooth to create space for the crown. If complete removal is necessary, it likely comes with additional cost, pain, and time.
Inlays allow your dentist to target only the areas that need to be removed and nothing more. With inlays, you won’t face surgery, medication and pain will be kept to a minimum, and the possibility of complications is lower than other choices.
If an inlay or onlay is medically sound, they are often the best choice.
The Durability and Fit Advantage
Dental inlays and onlays are known both for their durability and fit advantages. Because they are custom crafted, often using advanced imaging techniques, they offer a great deal of accuracy and help reduce the risk of bacteria or other undesirable substances entering the tooth pulp.
They are also remarkably durable, and with proper care can last 10 to 20 years or more.
If you’re considering dental inlays in Reno, NV, give Absolute Dental a call today to make an appointment or you may conveniently make one online. (844) 8‑SMILE‑NOW (844) 876‑4536
With this offer, there’s no excuse not to get back on track! Schedule a complete exam and x-rays for only $39 and ensure you have a beautiful healthy smile.
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Comparing Materials: Porcelain, Gold, and Composite
Porcelain is likely the most popular choice, as it blends seamlessly with your natural tooth color. Most people cannot tell it’s even there. It’s also very durable and is a great choice for most people.
Composite materials are the most affordable and also look like natural teeth. However, they may not last as long as porcelain or gold, meaning they may need to be updated more frequently.
Gold is a classic choice. It is extremely durable, but gold fillings are quite noticeable in comparison to other options. Some people do not like the look, especially in visible areas, but others appreciate the reliability.
Your Absolute Dental dentist can help you decide which material is right for you.
Costs, Insurance, and CareCredit
The costs of dental inlays or onlays vary due to a number of factors, including type, size, location, material used, and much more. The best way to understand the cost for indirect fillings is to discuss them with your dentist. They can give you an accurate breakdown of costs at your appointment.
However, it is important to remember that, as a conservative dental option, costs will often be lower than other options, such as crowns or implants.
Absolute Dental proudly accepts almost all forms of major dental insurance, and we accept multiple ways to pay your bill. For those without dental insurance, we offer generous payment plans and financing options, including CareCredit. We want to ensure everyone gets the dental help they need and deserve.
Caring for Your New Restoration
Caring for your new inlays or onlays is exactly like caring for your natural teeth — brushing twice per day, in the morning and before you go to bed. Also, floss in the evening before brushing. You may use antibacterial mouthwash if you wish, but never in place of brushing or flossing.
You should also visit your dentist every six months or as directed. At your checkups, your teeth, as well as restorations, will be cleaned, and your dentist will check on the health of your inlays and onlays. With proper care, they can last more than two decades.
We Accept Most Dental Insurance
Absolute Dental is a preferred provider for most insurances, unions, and hotels that include: Aetna, Ameritas, Boon-Chapman, Caesars Palace, Cigna, Delta Dental, Diversified, Geha, Guardian, Harrah’s, HealthSCOPE Benefits, Health Plan of Nevada (HPN), Humana, Liberty, Met-Life, MGM-MIRAGE, Premier Access, The Standard, Station Casinos, Teachers Health Trust, United Concordia, United Healthcare, Venetian, and The Zenith. We also accept Medicaid.
Schedule Your Restorative Consultation in Reno Today
From routine cleanings and checkups, to root canals, to dental onlays in Reno, NV, Absolute Dental is proud to serve the entire family. We have multiple locations in the Reno area to serve you, our offices are state-of-the-art, and our customers love our patient-centered approach to treatment.
When your family needs dental treatment, think Absolute Dental.
Call Absolute Dental in Reno now to make an appointment for dental services for the entire family, including inlays and onlays (844) 8‑SMILE‑NOW (844) 876‑4536
In many instances, yes, onlays are as good as crowns. In fact, in many instances they are preferred because they are a more conservative restoration option that preserves more of the natural tooth.
Onlays may not be used in every situation, and a crown may be a better medical fit for your situation. In addition, they generally take two visits to our office, as they must be manufactured, as opposed to one with traditional fillings.
Inlays and onlays are used when a traditional filling is not sufficient. This may mean the extent of the decay is too great or for another reason a traditional filling may not be suitable.
