Restorative

Inlays and Onlays

Custom porcelain or composite restorations that repair tooth decay or damage when a filling isn't enough but a crown isn't necessary. Stronger and longer lasting than traditional fillings.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are dental restorations made from porcelain or composite materials. Also known as indirect fillings, they are a well-fitting, stronger, longer lasting solution to treat tooth decay or similar structural damage.

When a tooth has damage that is too extensive to be treated with a filling, but not extensive enough to need a crown, the best option for restoration may be an inlay or onlay. The primary difference between an onlay and an inlay is that an onlay will cover a cusp of the tooth, whereas an inlay fills the area between the cusps.

Inlays and onlays are fabricated in a dental lab before being fitted and bonded to your damaged tooth by your dentist. This custom fabrication ensures a precise fit and excellent durability.

How Do I Know If I Need An Inlay or Onlay?

Only your dentist can determine if you need any type of dental restoration, including an inlay or onlay. If you think you might have a cavity or other dental issue, make an appointment with us. The type of treatment we recommend will depend on the extent of damage.

During your exam, we'll carefully assess the tooth and discuss your options. Our goal is to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible while providing a restoration that will last for years.

How Should I Care For My Inlay or Onlay?

Inlays and onlays are strong, long-lasting, and require no greater level of oral care than any other tooth. To maintain your inlay or onlay, you should practice good oral hygiene:

Brush twice a day to remove any stains from food and to remove plaque
Floss once a day to remove any buildup between your teeth
Visit us for professional cleanings every 3-6 months to maintain a healthy smile

With proper care, your inlay or onlay can serve you well for many years.

How it works

Examination and Preparation

We examine your tooth and remove any decay or damage. Then we prepare the tooth and take an impression to send to the dental lab.

Temporary Protection

While your custom inlay or onlay is being fabricated at the lab, we place a temporary restoration to protect your tooth.

Fitting and Bonding

Once your custom restoration arrives from the lab, we remove the temporary and carefully fit and bond the inlay or onlay to your tooth for a secure, lasting result.

Common questions

What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?+

An inlay fills the area between the cusps of your tooth, similar to a filling but custom-made in a lab. An onlay covers one or more cusps of the tooth, providing more extensive coverage while still preserving more tooth structure than a full crown.

How long do inlays and onlays last?+

With proper care and good oral hygiene, inlays and onlays can last many years. They are more durable than traditional fillings because they are custom-fabricated from strong materials and bonded securely to your tooth.

Will my inlay or onlay look natural?+

Yes. We use porcelain or composite materials that are carefully matched to the color of your natural teeth, so your restoration will blend seamlessly with your smile.

Related services

Fillings

Dental fillings restore teeth damaged by cavities, cracks, or wear. We offer both metal and tooth-colored options to repair your tooth's function and appearance.

Crowns and Bridges

Permanent restorations that repair damaged teeth and replace missing teeth, restoring both the appearance and function of your smile so you can chew comfortably and confidently.

Dental Restorations

Repair and replace damaged or missing teeth with fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures. We restore your smile's health, function, and appearance.

Get in touch — Vineland, NJ

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