The Difference Between Dental Crowns and Inlays/Onlays

When it comes to restoring damaged or decayed teeth, dental crowns and inlays/onlays are two common options. While both are effective at restoring function and aesthetics, they serve different purposes depending on the extent of damage or decay. This guide will walk you through the differences between dental crowns and inlays/onlays, helping you decide which option may be best for you.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a cap that fully covers a damaged or weakened tooth, providing protection and restoring its natural shape, size, and function. Crowns are commonly used in cases where a tooth is extensively decayed, broken, or weakened and needs full coverage to prevent further damage.

Common Reasons for Dental Crowns:

• Severe Decay: When a tooth has a large cavity that can’t be restored with a filling alone.
• Cracked or Broken Tooth: If a tooth has been fractured or cracked, a crown provides structural support.
• Post Root Canal: Following a root canal, the tooth is more fragile and often requires a crown to prevent further damage.
• Cosmetic Enhancement: Crowns are also used to improve the appearance of a tooth that is discolored or misshapen.

Types of Dental Crowns:

Crowns can be made from various materials, including:

• Porcelain or Ceramic: Known for a natural look, often used for front teeth.
• Metal: Durable and often used for molars; however, they are visible and less popular for cosmetic reasons.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal: Offers a balance of durability and aesthetics.
• Zirconia or Resin: These are increasingly popular due to their strength and resemblance to natural teeth.

The Process of Getting a Crown:

1. Preparation: The tooth is reshaped to make space for the crown, and any decay or old fillings are removed.
2. Impressions: A mold or digital scan is taken to create a custom-fit crown.
3. Temporary Crown: While waiting for the permanent crown, a temporary one is placed for protection.
4. Final Placement: The permanent crown is cemented onto the tooth and adjusted for a comfortable fit.

Crowns are a long-lasting solution, offering strength, durability, and a natural appearance when made from quality materials.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays, also known as partial crowns, are used to restore teeth that have damage but don’t require full coverage. They are custom-made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold to fit precisely within or on top of a damaged tooth, restoring both function and appearance.

Inlays:

• Location: Inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth, filling a small to medium cavity without covering the cusps (the raised points of a tooth).
• Best For: Situations where the damage is contained within the tooth’s surface and doesn’t involve the tooth’s edges.
• Material: Often made from porcelain or composite, inlays offer a natural look and blend well with surrounding teeth.

Onlays:

• Location: Onlays, also known as partial crowns, cover a larger portion of the tooth and extend over one or more cusps.
• Best For: Cases where the damage involves the biting surface and cusps but doesn’t require a full crown.
• Material: Onlays are usually made from porcelain or ceramic for durability and a natural look.

Inlays and onlays are bonded to the tooth and provide a conservative approach, preserving more of the natural tooth structure than crowns. They are especially beneficial for patients who want to retain as much of their tooth as possible.

The Process of Getting an Inlay or Onlay:

1. Assessment and Preparation: The dentist cleans the tooth, removes decay, and shapes the area for an inlay or onlay.
2. Impressions: An impression or scan is taken to create a custom-fit restoration.
3. Temporary Filling: A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth while the inlay or onlay is crafted.
4. Final Placement: The permanent inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth and polished for a smooth finish.

Key Differences Between Crowns and Inlays/Onlays

While both crowns and inlays/onlays restore damaged teeth, they differ in coverage, purpose, and the amount of natural tooth preserved.

Feature	Dental Crowns	Inlays/Onlays
Coverage	Covers the entire tooth	Covers only the damaged area
Tooth Preservation	Requires more tooth reshaping	Conservative, retains more natural tooth
Best For	Severely damaged or weak teeth	Moderate decay or damage
Procedure Time	Often two visits	Typically two visits
Materials	Porcelain, metal, zirconia, resin	Porcelain, composite resin, gold
Longevity	10-15 years or more with proper care	10-15 years or more with proper care
Aesthetics	Natural-looking, especially with ceramic	Natural-looking, especially with porcelain
Cost	Generally higher	Moderate cost

When to Choose a Crown

A crown is the better choice when:

• The tooth is extensively decayed or damaged.
• The tooth is at risk of breaking without full coverage.
• Root canal treatment has weakened the tooth.
• There are cosmetic concerns with tooth shape or color.

Crowns offer full protection and a durable solution, ideal for cases where a tooth needs comprehensive reinforcement and coverage.

When to Choose an Inlay or Onlay

Inlays or onlays are more suitable when:

• The damage is confined to a specific area and doesn’t affect the entire tooth.
• The patient prefers a conservative treatment that preserves more of the natural tooth.
• The cusps or edges of the tooth are still strong and intact.
• There is a moderate amount of decay or damage, not severe enough to require a crown.

Advantages of Crowns

• Strength and Durability: Crowns protect against heavy chewing forces and provide strong coverage for damaged teeth.
• Aesthetic Improvements: Porcelain crowns mimic the look of natural teeth, improving the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.
• Versatility: Crowns can address both functional and cosmetic issues, making them a versatile choice.

Advantages of Inlays and Onlays

• Conservation of Tooth Structure: Inlays and onlays are a conservative option, preserving more of the natural tooth than crowns.
• Durability: With proper care, inlays and onlays are long-lasting, offering a stable solution for moderate damage.
• Less Invasive: The procedure is less invasive than a crown, with less tooth reshaping required.

Caring for Crowns, Inlays, and Onlays

Proper care extends the life of any dental restoration. Here are some tips for maintaining your crown, inlay, or onlay:

• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss around your restorations to prevent plaque buildup and decay.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Hard or sticky foods can damage or dislodge your restoration.
• Wear a Mouthguard if Necessary: If you grind or clench your teeth, a mouthguard can help protect your restorations.
• Visit the Dentist Regularly: Routine check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your crowns, inlays, and onlays and address any issues promptly.

Choosing the Right Option for You

The decision between a crown, inlay, or onlay depends on the tooth’s condition, the amount of damage or decay, and your preferences for treatment. Consulting with your dentist is essential to determine the most appropriate solution.

• For more extensive damage or weakened teeth, crowns offer the best protection and durability.
• For moderate damage, inlays and onlays provide a conservative, effective alternative that preserves more of your natural tooth.

Ultimately, your dentist will guide you in making a choice that aligns with your oral health needs, lifestyle, and goals for your smile.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

If you’re dealing with a damaged tooth and are unsure of the best option, our team at Bright Smiles Dentistry & Orthodontics is here to help. We specialize in customized solutions that suit your unique dental needs, ensuring you receive the best care and long-lasting results. Contact us at (678) 941-5151 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how dental crowns or inlays/onlays can restore your smile.