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. Dr. Baird will create the restoration from a single block of porcelain using the E4D cad/cam system.
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 1-2 appointments for the entire process. Although the majority of inlays and onlays are completed in one visit, there is sometimes a need for a second visit depending on the circumstances involved and the type of porcelain used. If the restoration is not completed in one visit it can be ready no later than the next working day.
The procedure begins with the removal of any failed restorations and all decay in the tooth. Once we have removed the decay, we will create a digital true 3-D image of the tooth. This image will be used to create your new restoration using the E4D cad/cam computer software. If we decide to do the procedure in two visits, we will provide you with a temporary restoration. Our temporary restorations will resemble your natural teeth so that you can continue with your daily life without worrying about a missing or incompatible tooth.
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 or bond the inlay/onlay into your mouth, leaving you with a beautifully restored smile.
