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Inlays and onlays are durable, custom-made restorations designed to repair teeth with moderate damage or decay while preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible. At Monroe Dental and Implants, we use inlays and onlays to restore strength, function, and a natural appearance to your smile.
They are often considered a conservative alternative to full dental crowns.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations created outside the mouth and bonded to the tooth for a precise fit.
- Inlays fit within the grooves of the tooth
- Onlays extend over one or more cusps of the tooth
They are typically made from porcelain or composite materials to closely match the natural color of your teeth.
When Are Inlays or Onlays Needed?
Inlays and onlays are recommended when a tooth is too damaged for a filling but not damaged enough to require a crown.
They are used to:
- Repair moderate tooth decay
- Restore cracked or fractured teeth
- Replace large or failing fillings
- Strengthen weakened tooth structure
- Preserve more natural enamel than crowns
Benefits of Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer both functional and aesthetic advantages.
Benefits include:
- Natural, tooth-colored appearance
- Custom fit for strength and precision
- Long-lasting and durable
- Less removal of healthy tooth structure
- Improved bite alignment and stability
They provide a strong restoration that blends seamlessly with your smile.
The Inlay & Onlay Procedure
The process typically involves two visits.
During treatment:
- The tooth is numbed and prepared
- Impressions or digital scans are taken
- A temporary restoration may be placed
- The custom inlay or onlay is fabricated
- The final restoration is bonded and polished
The result is a comfortable, secure, and natural-looking restoration.
Strong, Comfortable, and Long-Lasting
Inlays and onlays are designed to withstand chewing forces while maintaining comfort and appearance. With proper care, they can last many years and help protect the tooth from further damage.
Caring for Inlays & Onlays
To maintain your restoration:
- Brush and floss daily
- Avoid biting hard objects
- Maintain regular dental checkups
- Address grinding or clenching if necessary
Good oral hygiene helps ensure long-term success.
Restore Your Tooth With Inlays & Onlays
If you have a tooth that needs more than a filling but less than a crown, inlays or onlays may be the ideal solution. At Monroe Dental and Implants, we focus on precise, conservative care that protects your natural smile.
Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and learn more about inlays and onlays.