When over 50% of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged, Dr. Brooks will often create an inlay or onlay for the tooth. San Diego Dentistry recommends this procedure for teeth where the size of the filling is too large to place a regular tooth colored filling, but smaller than that which would require a crown. Fillings can weaken the strength of a natural tooth by up to fifty percent.
Alternatively, inlays and onlays, are bonded directly to the tooth. These actually are felt to actually increase the strength of a tooth.
What are inlays and onlays made of?
San Diego Dentistry offers a variety of inlays and onlays which can be made of porcelain, composite resin, or gold. These pieces are bonded directly to the damaged tooth. An inlay – similar to a filling – is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay but extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.
Learn more about San Diego Dentistry’s Restorative Dental procedures.
