Inlays & Onlays Available at Family Practice Dentistry
Dental inlays and onlays offer a more conservative alternative to full crowns when it comes to restoring damaged teeth. They’re typically used on back teeth affected by mild to moderate decay, or for cracked teeth where the damage isn’t severe enough to require a full crown. These restorations are crafted from materials like porcelain, composite resin, or occasionally gold. The difference between the two comes down to coverage: inlays are bonded within the center of the tooth, while onlays extend further to cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps.
Benefits of Inlays & Onlays:
- Natural Appearance — Their tooth-colored material blends in naturally, making them far less noticeable than traditional metal fillings.
- Reliable Fit — Unlike metal fillings, inlays and onlays don’t expand or contract with temperature changes, ensuring a stable, long-lasting fit.
- Long-Lasting — With proper care, inlays and onlays can last up to 30 years — longer than most other filling options.
- Minimally Invasive — These restorations require removing very little of the natural tooth, helping preserve as much healthy structure as possible while still restoring damaged areas.
How It’s Done
Placing an inlay or onlay typically takes two visits. During the first visit, your dentist takes an impression of the affected tooth, which is sent to a dental lab to craft your custom restoration. Before you leave, a temporary inlay or onlay is placed to protect the tooth in the meantime.
At your second visit, the temporary material is removed, and your permanent inlay or onlay, created specifically for your tooth, is fitted into place.
Comprehensive Care for Your Whole Family
From routine checkups to advanced restorative treatments, Family Practice Dentistry offers a complete range of general, cosmetic, and restorative dental care under one roof. With more than 20 years of hands-on experience, Dr. Kevin J. Welch and his team are dedicated to helping patients of every age achieve a healthier, more confident smile, one visit at a time.
