About Us | About Office | Our Services | Appointments | Financial Options 

Porcelain Veneers | Porcelain Crowns (Caps) | Porcelain Fixed Bridges  
Inlay and Onlay Restorations | Teeth Whitening | White or Composite Filling

An Inlay or Onlay restoration is a custom made filling made of composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain. When the decay is extensive or tooth’s walls are damaged (cracked or broken) and a simple filling is not strong enough to restore the tooth, these stronger laboratory fabricated fillings are the treatments of choice. Inlays or Onlays fill the defected tooth structure by holding the defected parts together and thus strengthening the tooth.

Inlay or Onlay can be basically utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma. They are ideal alternatives to conventional silver and composite fillings. Also, they are more conservative than crowns because less tooth structure is removed in the preparation of inlays or onlays.

As with most dental restorations, Inlays or Onlays are not always permanent and may someday require replacement With proper care and routine dental check up they may last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

Inlays or Onlays are done to:

· Restore broken or fractured teeth.
· Enhance the cosmetic appearance.
· Repair decayed teeth.
· Repair and restore fractured fillings.
· Replace large fillings

How is an Inlay or Onlay done?

An Inlay or Onlay procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate impressions (molds) that will be used to create your custom inlay and a temporary restoration.

While the tooth is numb, the decay and/or old filling material is removed. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared, shaping the surface to properly fit an inlay/Onlay restoration. A temporary filling will be applied to protect the tooth while your restoration is made by a dental laboratory.

At your second appointment your new inlay/onlay will be carefully and precisely cemented into place. A few adjustments may be necessary to ensure a proper fit and that your bite is comfortable.

You will receive care instruction at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, a proper diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new inlay/onlay.