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Inlays & Onlays

Dental Inlays and Onlays preserve maximum natural tooth structure and help rebuild your smile

The extent of decay or other forms of tooth damage can vary considerably from person to person. However, modern dentistry allows dentists like Dr. Frederick Asuncion to precisely repair only the damaged area of the tooth. That represents considerable benefits to our patients, as alternatives to full-coverage crowns, dental inlays, and onlays at our office in Frederick, Maryland, present conservative options to restore oral health and rebuild smiles.

Inlays and onlays at Asuncion Dental Group explained

Inlays and onlays are types of dental restorations. That means that a tooth-like material, such as dental ceramic, is designed to replicate and replace the damaged or missing tooth structure. It is perfectly color-matched and shaped to blend in with the smile and provide the strength to facilitate effective chewing and other functions. As part of the restorative process, Dr. Asuncion will also remove any diseased tissue and substances. This step ensures that all disease-producing bacteria and pathogens are no longer present. In addition, it provides a great, healthy foundation for the new tooth material.

Inlays and onlays differ from each other in a few notable ways:

  • Dental inlays are generally considered to be alternatives to large fillings. An extensive filling may not provide the structure that assures your teeth remains strong and healthy over the long term. Each inlay is designed to replace damaged tooth structure within the points or cusps of the teeth. So, our dentist will place and securely fix the inlay “in” the shallow parts of the teeth between the points.
  • Dental onlays are generally characterized as a more conservative alternative to full crowns. For this reason, they are often referred to as “partial crowns.” They differ from inlays in that the onlays essentially replace more tooth structure. In turn, they support a larger surface area of the tooth and are larger than their counterparts. When Dr. Asuncion securely places an onlay, it covers at least one point or cusp in addition to the surface between those points.

The process of rebuilding a tooth with inlays and onlays is straightforward and well-tolerated. We will discuss ways to keep you relaxed and comfortable throughout the process. Due to our use of precision anesthetic and our precise planning, you will not feel any pressure or sensations while your tooth is altered. Additionally, since these conservative techniques preserve maximum tooth structure, your inlays and onlays will hold up great for many years to come with basic oral care! Contact us today at (301) 690-8482 to schedule your appointment.