Conservative Restorative Dentistry
Dental Inlays and Onlays with CEREC®
Restore strength and beauty to damaged teeth without the need for a full crown.
Inlays and onlays are custom-crafted restorations designed to repair teeth affected by decay or damage while preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible. Using advanced CEREC® technology, many cases can be completed with precision and efficiency.
Your First Choice for Cosmetic Dentistry
Don’t Need a Full Crown?
A dental crown is not always the only solution for restoring a damaged tooth. When decay or wear does not compromise the entire structure of the tooth, inlays and onlays offer a more conservative alternative. These restorations are bonded directly to the tooth, strengthening it while maintaining its natural integrity.
What Is a Dental Inlay?
An inlay is used when damage is confined to the center of the chewing surface of a tooth. It fits precisely within the cusps and replaces areas destroyed by decay or worn-out fillings.
- Replaces small to medium fillings Ideal when a traditional filling is no longer sufficient.
- Precision fit Custom-designed to match the exact dimensions of the prepared tooth.
- Natural appearance Crafted from porcelain or resin to blend seamlessly with enamel.
What Is a Dental Onlay?
An onlay is similar to an inlay but extends over one or more cusps of the tooth. It is often recommended when the damage is more extensive yet does not require a full crown.
- Protects weakened cusps Covers and reinforces areas under heavy chewing pressure.
- Conservative alternative to crowns Preserves more natural tooth structure.
- Long-lasting strength Bonds securely to reinforce and protect the tooth.
CEREC Same-Day Technology
With advanced CEREC computer-assisted design and milling technology, inlays and onlays can often be created in a single visit. After removing decay and preparing the tooth, a digital optical impression is taken. The restoration is then designed and milled with precision to ensure a comfortable, accurate fit.
- Digital optical impressions (no traditional messy molds)
- Computer-guided design for accuracy
- On-site milling for efficient turnaround
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
- Preserves natural tooth structure Less drilling compared to traditional crowns.
- Improves esthetics Replaces old metal fillings with tooth-colored restorations.
- Strengthens damaged teeth Provides durable reinforcement for chewing.
- Custom-crafted fit Designed specifically for your tooth’s anatomy.
At Southland Dental Care, inlays and onlays are carefully selected when they offer the best balance of conservation, durability, and aesthetics for your smile.
Inlays and Onlays FAQ
- How are inlays different from fillings?
- Inlays are custom-fabricated restorations made outside the mouth and bonded to the tooth, offering greater strength and precision than traditional fillings.
- How are onlays different from crowns?
- Onlays cover only the damaged portion of the tooth rather than the entire surface, preserving more natural structure.
- Are inlays and onlays durable?
- Yes. Porcelain and resin inlays/onlays are strong, long-lasting restorations designed to withstand normal chewing forces.
- Is the procedure painful?
- The tooth is numbed during treatment to ensure comfort. Most patients experience minimal discomfort.
- How long do they last?
- With proper care and routine dental visits, inlays and onlays can last many years.
- Can metal fillings be replaced with inlays or onlays?
- Yes. Many patients choose to replace old metal restorations with tooth-colored porcelain options for improved appearance.
- Is CEREC safe?
- CEREC technology is widely used and allows for accurate digital impressions and precise restoration fabrication.
- Am I a candidate?
- If your tooth is too damaged for a filling but does not require a full crown, an evaluation can determine if an inlay or onlay is appropriate.
