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Inlay & Onlay

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When decay affects the chewing surface of a molar, a filling may be insufficient to restore the tooth. If the damage is not extensive enough to warrant a crown, an inlay or onlay may be the best solution.

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Why do I need an inlay or an onlay?

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Relieve Discomfort and Restore Health: Decay can make teeth extra sensitive and eventually lead to tooth loss. An inlay or onlay can repair the tooth, alleviating sensitivity and preventing further decay.

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More Conservative than Crowns: Crowns require your dentist to remove a significant portion of the tooth to accommodate the restoration. As an intermediate step between fillings and crowns, an inlay or onlay requires only a small amount of enamel removal.

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Beautiful, Natural-Looking Results: Inlays and onlays are typically made of medical-grade porcelain, which can be shade-matched to blend seamlessly into your smile. Porcelain mimics the sheen of natural enamel and can strengthen a molar by up to 75 percent.

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What is involved in an inlay or an onlay?

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  • Administer a local anesthetic to numb the area for a more comfortable experience

  • Remove compromised tissue to eliminate all damaged areas and bacteria

  • Thoroughly clean and dry the tooth to ensure that no bacteria are trapped underneath the restoration

  • Take impressions or a scan of the tooth, which will serve as the basis of the customized restoration

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Inlays and onlays can be expertly fabricated in a laboratory or milled using CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) technology to blend with your smile for beautiful, natural-looking results. With CAD/CAM technology, such as CEREC®, your dentist can design and craft a custom inlay or onlay in a single visit. This system combines advanced computer software, a 3-D scanner, and an in-office milling unit. This means less time spent in the dentist’s chair, as well as a faster, more convenient solution. Inlays and onlays require no additional downtime, so you can leave the office with fully restored dental function.

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  • Check the fit of the restoration to ensure your bite is balanced and comfortable

  • Bond the inlay or onlay to your tooth, restoring function and aesthetics

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Book your appointment for a free consultation now!

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