Onlay and Inlay Filling Treatment

Only and inlay filling treatment is an aesthetic method applied when a part of the tooth decays, which is too small to be veneered, but too large to be treated with a simple filling. The cavity formed after the caries is cleaned is filled with one of these. It protects the remaining intact tissue after fracture or decay and completes the missing part.

These fillings are obtained from fiber or ceramic-reinforced composite. It is also known as porcelain filling. It can be metal or tooth-colored. They are produced in a laboratory environment in accordance with the tooth color and mouth structure of the person.

What is the Difference Between Onlay and Inlay?

They vary in terms of the region in which they are applied. Onlay infill is similar to Crown veneer. It is applied to cover the caries mounds (tubercles on the tooth). They are large fillings because they are used on large surfaces.

Inlay fillings are smaller fillings that cover the chewing surface of the teeth. It remains between the tubercles. It is applied to the circles outside the tooth cusps. It is placed inside the teeth.

Advantages of Onlay and Inlay Fillers

  • Its resistance to chewing pressures and abrasions is higher than conventional filling materials.
  • It does not cause allergic reactions.
  • They are long-lasting, strong materials. Protects teeth against breakage and wear.
  • It gives very successful results in terms of aesthetics. Since it is made in the colour of the tooth, it does not spoil its natural appearance.
  • It prevents the formation of stains, the squeezing of food between the teeth, and the accumulation of bacteria.
  • It prevents breakage and cracking in the weak parts of the tooth.
  • It has polished surfaces. Food residues do not stick to it. Therefore, it is hygienic.
  • It can be easily applied in just 1-2 sessions.
  • Protects tooth tissue. Unnecessary cutting is not done. It prevents the loss of substance in the teeth. It adapts perfectly to the applied tooth and adjacent teeth.
  • It does not leak intraoral fluids.
  • It is resistant to thermal effects.
  • Normal dental care, it does not require much care. You just need to brush and floss your teeth every day.
  • There is no polymerization shrinkage in these fillings over time. So they don’t shrink. It also does not change colour. Hot-cold sensitivity and recurrent caries are not seen in the teeth.
  • In teeth with excessive material loss and undergoing root canal treatment, the lost parts can be replaced with adhesive.

How Long Do Onlay and Inlay Fillers Last?

This is related to the condition of the tooth and chewing strength. It is also important how much attention the patient pays to oral hygiene and dentist controls. These fillings can maintain their functions in a healthy way for decades.

How is Inlay and Onlay Filling Made?

  • The aim of this treatment is not to damage the natural tooth tissue as much as possible. Before the procedure, the area around the tooth is anesthetized. The places where rot occurs are cleaned.
  • Then, a tooth mold is taken by means of a paste-like material or digital modeling (computer method called Cad/Cam). This mold is then sent to the laboratory.
  • Inlay or onlay filling is obtained with the help of resin or ceramic from the created tooth model.
  • It is closed with a temporary filling application to prevent wear of the tooth until the permanent material comes.
  • The applied filling is removed in the second appointment.
  • Inlay or onlay filling is adhered to the tooth with a special adhesive.
  • It is polished and the tooth is subjected to final controls.

Onlay and Inlay Filling Prices

Crowns cover the entire surface of the tooth. However, inlay and onlay fillings are designed to cover only the decayed part of the tooth. Therefore, in this treatment, the tooth structure is less interfered with and the cost is lower.

Ceramic fillings are more expensive than other filling types. The experience of the dentist is another factor that affects pricing. If imported materials are used, the cost may increase. Contact us for more information.

What Should Inlay and Onlay Fillers Take Care of?

Onlays and inlays require no special care in addition to standard dental care. Teeth should be brushed regularly, floss should be used and dentist checks should be done continuously.