Smiles by Farr Performs Dental Inlay and Onlays

Inlays/Onlays, like crowns, are synthetic– usually made of porcelain, and are placed on top of a tooth. However, inlays and onlays do not extend as far down the tooth as a crown and healthy tooth structure can be preserved with these types of restorations. Inlays and onlays are used to restore a tooth’s function and appearance after a tooth has been damaged, but not damaged to the extent where a crown is needed.

Procedures

A tooth must usually be reduced in size to accommodate the restoration. An impression is made of the existing prepared tooth and sent to a special lab which manufactures a custom-designed restoration. In most cases, a temporary appliance is placed until the definitive one is ready. Definitive restorations are cemented or bonded in place.

Crowns are sometimes confused with veneers, but they are quite different. Veneers are typically applied only to relatively small areas.

Caring For Your Crowns

With proper care, a good quality crown could last up to ten years or more. It is very important to floss in the area of the crown to avoid excess plaque or collection of debris around the restoration.
Certain behaviors such as jaw clenching or bruxism (teeth grinding) significantly shorten the life of a crown. Moreover, eating brittle foods, ice or hard candy can compromise the adhesion of the crown, or even damage the crown.

For cleanings, periodontal treatments, or any of the treatments above, schedule an appointment with Dr. Farr. Call today at our Huntley office (847) 669-2787 or Barrington office at (847) 381-7290 for after hours and emergency care call (847) 849-6371. Our staff looks forward to meeting you!