Hyannis dentist, Dentist in Hyannis, MA

Inlays/Onlays

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, but can also be made of a composite material. We will make the determination as to which restoration will work best in your specific situation.

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 we have decided to go ahead with an inlay or onlay, we will set aside approximately one and a half hours time to complete the procedure chair-side using the E4D technology.

The procedure begins with the removal of all decay in the tooth. Once we have removed the decay, we will take a digital impression of the tooth, and design your definitive restoration on a computer to be milled out of porcelain in the office. The final step in the process is to chemically bond the inlay/onlay into your mouth, leaving you with a beautifully restored smile.