Choosing the Right Dental Restoration: Crowns, Inlays, and Onlays

When it comes to restoring damaged or decayed teeth, dental crowns, inlays, and onlays are popular options that can effectively repair and strengthen your smile. However, understanding the differences between these dental restorations and determining which option is right for you can be overwhelming. At Tolland Hill Family Dental, we are here to help you make an informed decision about your dental care. There are unique features and benefits of crowns, inlays, and onlays that can help you choose the right option for repairing your tooth.

Dental Crowns: Versatile and Protective

Dental crowns, also known as caps, are versatile restorations that cover the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gumline. They are often recommended for teeth with extensive decay, fractures or structural damage that cannot be effectively repaired with fillings or other restorative treatments. Made from durable materials such as porcelain, ceramic, zirconia or metal alloys, dental crowns provide excellent protection and strength for weakened teeth while restoring their appearance and function.

Dental Inlays: Precise and Conservative

Dental inlays are custom-made restorations that fit into the grooves or indentations of a tooth’s chewing surface. Unlike fillings, which are molded directly into the tooth cavity, inlays are fabricated in a dental laboratory based on impressions of your tooth and then bonded securely into place. Inlays are an ideal solution for restoring moderately sized cavities or areas of decay that are too large for fillings but not extensive enough to require a dental crown. By preserving more of the natural tooth structure, inlays offer a conservative yet durable solution for repairing damaged teeth.

Dental Onlays: Extensive Coverage with Minimal Removal

Dental onlays, also known as partial crowns, are similar to inlays but provide more extensive coverage for larger areas of decay or damage. Onlays are custom-made restorations that cover the chewing surface of a tooth as well as one or more of its cusps or points. This allows for greater preservation of healthy tooth structure compared to traditional crowns while still providing the necessary strength and protection for weakened or damaged teeth. Dental onlays offer a balance between the conservative nature of inlays and the comprehensive coverage of crowns, making them an excellent option for restoring teeth with moderate to severe damage.

Choosing the Right Option for You

Several factors should be considered when determining which dental restoration is right for repairing your tooth, including the extent of damage, the location of the tooth and your aesthetic preferences. During your consultation at Tolland Hill Family Dental, Dr. Hemphill will carefully evaluate your oral health and discuss your treatment options to help you make an informed decision. Whether you require a dental crown, inlay or onlay, you can trust our team to provide personalized care and exceptional results.

Dental crowns, inlays and onlays are effective restorative options for repairing damaged or decayed teeth and restoring your smile’s health and function. By understanding the unique features and benefits of each option, you can work with your dentist to choose the right restoration for your specific needs. At Tolland Hill Family Dental, we are committed to providing high-quality dental care tailored to each patient’s individual goals and preferences. Contact us today at our office in Toland, CT, to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile!