Filling, Inlay, Onlay, or Crown? What is the Difference?

Dental restorations play a significant role in preventing major dental problems and invasive dental treatments. Multiple dental restorative options include dental crowns, fillings, inlays, and onlays. Several patients fail to figure out the perfect treatment for their dental problems. Visiting a dentist is the ideal solution for early detection of the issues and treatments. Having a basic knowledge will help you know what to expect. Generally, the need for dental restorations arises when you suffer from damaged teeth. There can be multiple causes of tooth damage, which include sports injuries, accidents, decay, and many more. You will learn about different dental restorative options and their uses and differences in this blog. 

What Is A Dental Filling?  

Dentists generally suggest and conduct dental fillings for those patients suffering from cavities. Professionals use special drills to remove the decayed parts and fill those gaps with fillings. Amalgam, composite resin, porcelain, and gold are different materials that dentists use for dental fillings. This is mainly done for small cavities; significant damages might even require dental crowns in Portage Park for additional protection. There is nothing to fear about this dental procedure, as dentists use numbing options.           

What Is A Dental Inlay? 

Dentists generally customize dental inlays according to the specific requirements of patients. It can perfectly fit in the tooth, replacing the damaged or decayed area. This is the perfect solution if you have large cavities in your teeth but do not require dental crowns. It can seamlessly blend with your natural tooth, making it hard for others to spot their presence. You should visit your dentist twice to complete the entire procedure. On your first visit, the dentist will remove the decayed area. Professionals tend to fit the inlays on the second visit to the desired location.

What is A Dental Onlay? 

Dental onlays are almost the same when we compare them with dental inlays; dentists suggest onlays when damage is there in more than one tooth. Again, it can be the perfect solution for multiple damaged teeth that do not require dental crowns. It provides much more support and coverage than we compare with dental inlays. It can be the perfect option for back teeth, which often require extra support after damage. 

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are nothing but an artificial cap that protects the teeth and enhances the visual appeal of damaged teeth. It can be the ideal solution and the last step to save a tooth that is severely damaged. Dentists also provide dental crowns to those patients who have just undergone root canal treatment. Metal, ceramic, or porcelain are the materials that dentists use to manufacture dental crowns. They are highly durable and let the patient return to their regular diet. 

Which One is Right for You?

The proper restoration depends on the extent of the damage or decay and your personal preferences. Dental fillings are the best for small cavities or minor damage. Inlays can be ideal for medium-sized cavities that don’t need full coverage. Onlays are suitable for larger cavities or teeth that need more support than an inlay can provide but don’t require dental crowns. Are you suffering from severely damaged teeth? Go for dental crowns. 

Choosing The Right Dental Restoration 

Dental restorations like fillings, inlays, onlays, and crowns are crucial in maintaining oral health by restoring damaged teeth. Whether you need a quick fix for a small cavity or a full coverage solution for a severely damaged tooth, there’s an option suited for every need. Consult your dentist to discuss the best approach to restore your tooth and preserve its functionality and appearance.