Crowns vs. Inlays & Onlays
Tuscumbia, AL
 Dental crowns, inlays and onlays are tooth restoration options in case of decay that cannot simply be cured by fillings.
Crowns fully cover the biting part of the tooth, including the portion above the gum line. On the other hand, an inlay is like a solid piece that acts like a filling, and an onlay goes a step forward to cover the cusp of the tooth.
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What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are like caps that shield damaged teeth. They are used to protect and restore the shape of your tooth when fillings prove to be insufficient. Crowns may be made of porcelain, metals, ceramics or resin. They usually do not require special care and can be maintained through good oral hygiene.
Pros of Dental Crowns
Here are some of the top advantages of opting for a dental crown:
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Crowns can be designed to match the natural tooth shape and color.
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They can improve your smile without being noticeable.
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They can hold a heavily cracked tooth in position.
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Crowns can shield a tooth after root canal treatment. |
Cons of Dental Crowns
While crowns are effective and long-lasting, there are some disadvantages to be mindful of:
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The original tooth has to be considerably trimmed to place a crown.
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They may increase sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks.
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Crowns can be expensive. |
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
An inlay is opted for when a cavity is too large to be handled by a filling. The inlay consists of a single, solid piece that is designed according to the shape and size of the cavity.
An onlay, on the other hand, is more comprehensive than an inlay, but less than a crown. It not only fills the cavities, but also the tooth cusp.
Pros of Inlays and Onlays
Here are some of the major benefits or inlays and onlays:
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They offer better protection than fillings.
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They can be designed to match the color of your natural teeth.
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Inlays and onlays preserve the original structure of the tooth. |
Cons of Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are convenient procedures, but there are some downsides that you need to know:
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Inlays and onlays need to be applied in at least two visits to the dentist.
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They can come off at times, but can be rebonded.
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They can last 5-10 years which is less than the life of dental implants. |
Dental Crowns vs Inlays and Onlays: Which is Better?
Compared to a dental crown, inlays and onlays are less intrusive dental procedures. Only a minimum amount of tooth structure needs to be removed to place an onlay, while a tooth has to be substantially shaved down to fix a crown. Inlays and onlays are also less expensive than crowns.
However, dental implants can help restore a badly damaged tooth. It can act as a replacement tooth after root canal surgery and strengthens the nerves and soft tissues underneath the tooth.
Dental crowns are typically more long-lasting than inlays and onlays, and can stay in place for up to 10-15 years.
Contact Us Today!
If you are suffering from a missing tooth, schedule an appointment with us at Singing River Dentistry by calling us at 256-712-2240 today.
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