In most instances, when you develop a cavity it can be repaired with a filling. But sometimes – when the tooth decay or damage to the tooth is more severe – it will take more than a simple filling to resolve the issue. In those circumstances, Dr. Reddy may recommend an inlay or an onlay. These custom-made dental solutions can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth, which means and inlays and onlays are virtually invisible – even to the patient! Dr. Reddy and the staff at Best Smiles Dental are pleased to offer inlays and onlays as one of the many services we provide to our patients at our Hutto, TX, office.

What You Should Know about Inlays & Onlays

While both inlays and onlays are made of porcelain dental material that is extremely durable and is custom-made to perfectly match the color of your natural teeth, there are differences between the two. An inlay covers the center of the tooth’s surface between the tooth’s edges, while an onlay covers the entire biting surface of the tooth, including the edges. Onlays are sometimes referred to as “partial crowns.” Both inlays and onlays are very strong and typically last for many years. They are often an excellent way to restore teeth that can’t be repaired with a simple filling.

When Inlays and Onlays Are Recommended

Dr. Reddy may recommend an inlay or an onlay for the following dental problems:

• Teeth that are broken or fractured
• Decayed teeth that can’t be repaired with a filling
• Teeth with old fillings that need to be replaced
• Teeth that are severely decayed or damaged