INLAYS, ONLAYS, CROWNS & BRIDGES

Inlays are used to conservatively restore a decayed or damaged tooth, typically on the pits or grooves of the tooth. They fit within the contours of the tooth and are fabricated from very strong materials. Inlays are conservative and remove less healthy tooth structure than crowns. They blend in well with the natural tooth color.

Onlays are very similar to inlays. The difference is that in addition to restoring the pits and grooves, they will also cover one or more of the cusps (points of the teeth). Onlays are necessary when a cusp is involved but the desire is for a strong restoration that is more conservative than a crown, sparing as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

Crowns, or full-coverage crowns, completely cover the entire tooth. These are often reserved for teeth that are severely decayed, fractured, or worn. Because they cover the entire tooth, they provide significant protection for teeth with extensive damage.

A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) anchored by crowns placed on the adjacent teeth (abutments). bridges restore the ability to chew and speak properly, and they can improve the appearance of the smile. They are an alternative to dental implants and usually do not require surgery or bone grafting. This is a two-visit procedure.

If you have questions about any of these procedures, find out more by contacting us.