Ceramic Inlays and onlays
Porcelain Inlays and onlays is a type of prosthetic restoration used in case of extensive destruction of the posterior teeth (inlays) or moreover when the cusps of the teeth need to be covered (onlays).
They are the ideal solution for cases with extensive caries where a simple filling would not be enough. They are also indicated for root canal treated teeth as a minimally invasive solution compared to a full coverage crown.
The dentist removes the decay, prepares the tooth and makes an impression. The inlay/onlay is fabricated at the dental lab and has the appropriate shape to replace the missing tooth structure. Finally, it is bonded to the tooth with a special process.
Inlays and onlays are highly esthetic, are more durable and last usually longer than regular composite resin fillings.
Bridges
When one or more natural teeth are missing, one of the possible fixed solutions is a dental bridge. A bridge is a restoration composed of connected artificial teeth. The two extreme crowns of the bridge are permanently attached to the natural teeth located on each side of the edentulous area. Those natural teeth/abutments have to be healthy or treated and will be prepared in order to receive the prosthesis.
Connected artificial teeth, the same in number as the missing natural teeth are located in the middle of the restoration. For example, a single missing tooth is restored with a three-unit bridge. Bridges in general cannot replace more than three consecutive missing teeth. Of course if there are two or more edentulous areas with presence of natural teeth between them, the total number of missing teeth restored by a single bridge can be greater.
Bridges, like single crowns, are fabricated at the dental lab by the dental technician based on impressions made at the dental office. The materials available vary but the most esthetic ones are the all ceramic with zirconia.
Bridges often last for many years as long as a proper home care/hygiene regimen is followed in order to maintain the health of the natural teeth/abutments.
Crowns
A crown is a fixed prosthetic restoration that completely covers the visible part of the tooth in order to protect it.
To place a crown,the tooth has to be prepared (grinded) circumferentially so that the prosthesis can be seated correctly in place. A crown is fabricated at the dental lab by the dental technician based on impressions made at the dental office.
Indications for a crown:
- Extensive tooth structure loss due to decay
- Tooth fracture
- To prevent crack propagation
- Fragile teeth after root canal therapy
- Extensive old fillings in need of replacement
Dental crowns are fabricated in such a way to mimic natural tooth morphology and shade, thus restoring its function and esthetics