Inlays and Onlays
Sometimes you have teeth that are badly damaged, and inlays/onlays can help restore their function and prevent any further deterioration. We usually consider using an inlay/onlay restoration if more than half of your tooth’s biting surface is compromised. Inlays/onlays come in various forms, most commonly porcelain, gold, or composite resin and are bonded directly to your natural tooth. The difference between an inlay and an onlay is simple. Think of an inlay like a filling. It’s used to repair the cusps of your tooth. An onlay is a more complex restoration that actually covers more of your tooth or one or more cusps. We generally recommend using porcelain to complete your inlay/onlay restorations because it blends naturally with your existing teeth.
For the most part, inlays/onlays take two appointments to complete, as we take great care to prepare your tooth with precise impressions to ensure a proper fit and secure bite. We send that to the lab and provide you with a temporary sealant. When your inlay/onlay arrives from the lab, we’ll place it and make sure everything fits comfortably. Your restoration is bonded to your existing tooth with a durable resin and then polished for a clean, smooth finish you’re going to love.