Restore My Smile

Inlays & Onlays

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What Are Inlays & Onlays?

Situations where a filling might compromise tooth structure and where a full crown is not necessary, an inlay or onlay will be placed to restore tooth damage caused by a cavity or trauma.

Inlays and onlays are both restorations that are used to repair a damaged tooth (usually a back tooth / molar) and are used as durable and attractive alternatives to standard fillings and crowns. Inlays and onlays are similar restorations but cover different sections of a tooth. They are one-piece, custom-fitted dental restorations that are fabricated from high-strength material to be able to withstand everyday use such as biting and chewing. When properly cared for, these dental restorations can last for decades.

If you are currently experiencing failing restorations, an inlay or onlay may be a better alternative. We would love for you to call our office at 916-362-9247 or request an appointment online to come in and have us take a look at your current situation.

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Inlays and Onlays

An inlay or onlay is a method of repairing a tooth that is somewhere between a filling and a crown. They are used when the tooth is unable to support a filling, but is not damaged to the point that it needs a crown. An inlay is much like a filling but is inserted into the ridges (cusps) of the chewing surface. An onlay is a little more extensive than an inlay and covers multiple cusps of the tooth. Inlays and onlays are commonly made with ceramic or composite materials but can also be made of gold. They are very durable and can last a long time depending on the material used and how well the patient takes care of them with regular brushing, flossing and visits to the dentist.

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