Crowns vs. Inlays and Onlays Tulsa, OK
Dental crowns and onlays are some of the more commonly used options available to patients to help restore a damaged tooth. Both of these restoration options are manufactured exclusively for the widest places of decomposition, which are not possible to recover with just a filling or inlay. However, they share a few differences that put them apart. At Smiles of Tulsa, it is our pleasure to help you restore your smile by determining what is the adequate treatment for your case.
Crowns, Inlays, and Onlays Differences
A crown is, essentially, a cap that goes over a damaged tooth. It covers every corner of the biting surface of a tooth, including the entire tooth structure that is above the gum line. This makes crowns perfect for patients who have suffered from more significant amounts of tooth decay.
Meanwhile, inlays and onlays are a type of restoration that can only be placed on the biting surface of the teeth. While an inlay is perfect for covering small spots of damaged cusps, an onlay can completely cover all of the cusps of your tooth if necessary.
Before restoring your teeth, a prior consultation with our professionals is needed in order to evaluate which option would be the most suitable for your case. Patients who have a tooth significantly damaged by decay or cavities often need a crown or onlay placement. However, those who just have a small portion of their tooth that needs covering would benefit best from just an inlay.
Aesthetics and Materials
We understand that aesthetics are important for patients, so we offer various options for them to choose when selecting the kind of material they want for their crowns, inlays, or onlays. Those that are made of porcelain fused with metal may be more economical, but over time, the metal could begin to reveal itself and change color to a much darker tone. For this, we recommend a restoration method made of porcelain or zirconia, provided that it would best suit the needs of a patient.
Maintenance and Durability
In order to get the most out of their inlay, onlay, or crown, patients must avoid habits that can exert some kind of unnecessary pressure on their teeth and can therefore shorten their durability. In addition to this, teeth with any of these oral appliances should be properly taken care of, both at home and by visiting our office periodically for a professional cleaning.
Depending on their material, inlays and onlays tend to last from 7 to 10 years. Crowns, however, can last between 5 to 15 years. Ultimately, the quality of the appliance and the attention of its patient will determine whether it lasts longer or not. Taking good care of the restoration is essential to help ensure its longevity.
The effects of decay or cavities are anything but ideal for the smile of a patient. Fortunately, crowns, inlays and onlays are designed to help you revert the damage and save your teeth. Visit us at Smiles of Tulsa today, or contact us at (918) 891-3059 to book an appointment and get to know which method is the best for you.
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