The Whitmar Medical Dental Building - 16315 Whittier Blvd., Suite 203, Whittier, CA 90603Inlays and onlays are dental restorations designed to repair teeth that have suffered damage or decay. They serve as an intermediate solution when the damage is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full crown. Our skilled dentist may recommend an inlay or onlay to restore your tooth’s health, function and appearance. Crafted from high-quality materials such as porcelain, composite resin or gold, these restorations are custom-made to fit perfectly and blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Inlays are used to repair damage within the cusps of a tooth. This type of restoration is ideal for cavities or damage that lies in the center of the tooth, away from the outer edges. On the other hand, onlays are used when the damage extends to one or more of the tooth’s cusps. Sometimes referred to as partial crowns, onlays provide a more extensive restoration while preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible.
The process of getting an inlay or onlay typically involves two visits to our dental office. During the first visit, our dentistwill remove the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth and take an impression to create a custom inlay or onlay. A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth while your restoration is being fabricated. During your second visit, the custom inlay or onlay will be bonded to your tooth, polished and adjusted for a perfect fit.
Inlays and onlays are highly durable and can last for many years with proper care. They provide a strong and aesthetically pleasing solution, often indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Choosing an inlay or onlay not only restores the function and beauty of your smile but also conserves more of your natural tooth structure compared to a full crown.
If you have a damaged tooth and are unsure whether an inlay or onlay is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our skilled dentist. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Give us a call today to learn more about how dental inlays and onlays can benefit your oral health!
