Inlays and onlays are often referred to as partial crowns. They use the existing tooth as a base and fit the inlay or onlay onto the tooth. This is done to strengthen the tooth, restore its shape, and prevent further damage. An inlay is done when there is no damage to the cusps of the tooth and the inlay can be placed right in the tooth. An onlay is used when the damage is a little more extensive and some of the cusps need to be replaced. Our Cerec machine cna do this nicely so we can conserve as much of the tooth as possible. This can happen in one visit! Its a CAD/CAM process that skips the nasty "goop" of an impression and is bonded in before the anesthetic wears off. The porcelain blends into your existing tooth structure and looks beautiful in the mirror.
