Crowns, Inlays and Onlays – What’s the Difference?

When it comes to fixing broken and damaged teeth, we offer several effective long-term treatments. These include dental crowns, inlays and onlays. In this article, we take a look at these options in more detail to highlight the main differences and to give you an idea as to which might be best for you.

Dental Crowns

If your tooth has lost a third or more of its structure, a dental crown might be your best option. These are permanent ‘caps’ that fit over the broken tooth. Before the crown is fitted, the dentist removes some tooth material. An impression is then made of the tooth and pictures of your teeth are taken to ensure you get an exact match in terms of size and colour.

A temporary crown can be fitted while your permanent crown is being made. There are different options when it comes to dental crowns, so you will have the opportunity to discuss your preferences before the crown is fitted. If you have a missing tooth, dental crowns can also be used to fix a replacement tooth (or bridge) in place.

Dental Inlays

Dental inlays are one solution for patients who have significant decay or who need to have a large filling removed or replaced, leaving the tooth with a compromised structure. Inlays fit within the tooth and do not extend over the cusp. They are similar to fillings but are more durable and are designed to fix more extensive damage to the back teeth.

Before the custom-made inlay is fitted, the dentist cleans out any decay to ensure the space is clean. Inlays are manufactured from material such as porcelain or composite resin and are made to match the colour of your existing tooth. The inlay is hard-wearing and securely bonded in place, giving you the confidence to eat and chew without fear of the tooth breaking.

Dental Onlays

These are very similar to inlays except, as the name suggests, dental onlays are used to repair damage that extends to the cusp. These are the raised points on your back teeth. Onlays are also similar to dental crowns in that they provide support to teeth which are vulnerable to vertical fracture. However, less tooth material is removed than is required when fitting a crown.

The tooth is cleaned to remove any decay before an impression is taken and the onlay is custom-made in a colour that blends in with your existing teeth. A temporary onlay can be fitted while the permanent one is being made. The onlay will be bonded in place and offers a long-term and hard-wearing solution. As with crowns and inlays, local anesthetic is administered to reduce any discomfort while the treatment is being carried out.

At The Lodge, we offer a full range of treatments that can help give you the smile you’ve always wanted. My colleagues and I are highly experienced dental professionals who look forward to working with you to improve your oral health.