Dental inlays and onlay may do a job too big for a filling.

What do you do with a cavity or damage that is too big for a filling, but not large enough for a crown? You call Dr. Kimberly Fee to schedule a consultation for an inlay or onlay in Prescott, Arizona.

Inlays and onlays are sometimes called partial crowns and are custom-made to restore the shape and health of your damaged tooth. An inlay or onlay will allow your tooth to function as it should. Inlays and onlays are made of porcelain, gold, composite resin, and they can be made to blend in with the structure of your tooth and be undetectable to other people.

diagram of the differences between dental inlays and onlaysSo, what is the difference between an inlay or onlay? Inlays are used to repair damage to the tooth that has not affected the cusps, which are the edges on the biting surfaces of your molars or premolars that stick up and help you to chew your food. The inlay fits into the grooves of your teeth. Onlays are used when the damage involves the cusps of your tooth. An onlay will protect the part of the tooth that is most involved in biting or chewing. The dentist will determine which course of treatment will work best for you during your examination.

You don’t have to live with tooth damage. Anytime you experience pain or any abnormality with a tooth, you should schedule a visit with the dentist by calling 928-778-7410 today; to find our if you could benefit from an inlay or an onlay.