Crown versus Inlay/Onlay

If you have suffered damage or severe decay to your teeth, you may need dental crowns in Atlanta, GA. Come to Trust Dental Group, where you will receive expert care from Dr. Robert Cudia and his staff.

You may wonder what the difference is between crowns and partial crowns. Both options can help restore teeth based on the severity of the damage.

What exactly is a "Crown"?  

A crown is a tooth restoration that covers the entire tooth. We do this when a substantial amount of tooth structure is lost either to decay, fracture, or a failing large restoration, typically an amalgam or silver filling. A full-coverage restoration such as this restores all the strength to a weakened tooth. It is shaded to blend with the surrounding teeth and looks, chews, and feels like a natural tooth. Crowns are made from a variety of materials depending on the individual need and Dr. Cudia carefully chooses which type is right for a patient carefully for an aesthetic and functional result.

An Inlay or Onlay was recommended, How do they differ from a crown?

When a tooth is too broken down for a simple filling to suffice and yet the tooth has enough sound structure remaining that a crown is unwarranted an Inlay or Onlay can be done. These restorations are made of the same stronger materials that crowns are made of but only cover a portion of the tooth. They typically last longer than routine filling while retaining tooth structure resulting in a longer lifespan for the tooth.  

How Do Inlays and Onlays Differ?

An inlay is smaller while an onlay fits on the cusp of the tooth. Both fit on the chewing surface of the teeth. When you come to our office for partial dental crowns in Atlanta, GA, we will examine your teeth to make sure you are a candidate. Our staff will take impressions of your teeth to send to a lab. This lab will custom make your inlay or onlay. Dr. Cudia will cement the partial crown into your tooth during your second visit.

As long as you take care of your partial crowns, they can last up to 30 years.

How To Care For Your Crowns

Please take care of your restorations by brushing and flossing regularly. Remember to keep up your regular six-month visits to our office. Don't use your restored teeth as an excuse to chew on hard objects or eat tough foods that could damage your teeth. If you need a tool to open something, don't use your natural or restored teeth. Doing so will easily damage them.

You don't have to live with tooth decay and damage. Visit us at Trust Dental Group. Dr. Cudia will place dental crowns in Atlanta, GA, on your teeth in a comfortable environment. Call us at (404) 525-2741 for an initial consultation.