Description

Teeth fillings, inlays, and onlays are restorative dental treatments used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. Each option varies in terms of the extent of coverage and material used, depending on the severity of the tooth damage. Teeth Filling: A dental filling is used to restore a tooth that has been affected by minor decay or damage. The decayed part of the tooth is removed, and the area is filled with a material such as composite resin, amalgam (silver), porcelain, or gold. Fillings restore the tooth's shape, prevent further decay, and help regain its normal function. Composite resin fillings are tooth-colored, making them a popular choice for visible areas of the mouth. Inlay: An inlay is a more extensive restoration than a filling but less so than a crown. It is used when the damage or decay is within the cusps (the raised points) of the tooth. Inlays are custom-made in a dental lab, often from porcelain, composite resin, or gold, and are cemented into place. They are durable and offer a natural-looking appearance, particularly when made of tooth-colored materials like porcelain. Onlay: An onlay, sometimes referred to as a "partial crown," is used for larger areas of tooth damage that extend beyond the cusps. Like an inlay, it is custom-made to fit the tooth and can be made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Onlays cover one or more of the tooth's cusps, providing additional structural support. They are bonded to the tooth to restore its function and appearance while preserving as much of the natural tooth as possible. Each of these treatments is designed to protect the tooth from further decay, restore its natural function, and maintain oral health. The choice between a filling, inlay, or onlay depends on the extent of the damage and the location in the mouth.