Inlay & Onlays
Precise, Durable Restorations for a Stronger Smile
When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but not quite in need of a full crown, inlays and onlays provide the perfect middle-ground solution. At Garden Dental Studio, we offer these conservative, long-lasting restorations to repair teeth while preserving as much of your natural structure as possible.
Crafted with precision and bonded directly to the tooth, inlays and onlays restore both function and aesthetics—giving your tooth strength, stability, and a natural look.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay, fractures, or old, failing fillings. Often referred to as “indirect fillings,” they’re created in a dental lab (or in-office with digital technology, if available) and then bonded to the affected tooth.
- Inlays: Fit within the grooves of the tooth, between the cusps (the raised points on the chewing surface).
- Onlays: Cover a larger portion of the tooth, extending over one or more cusps.
When Are Inlays and Onlays Recommended?
Your dentist may recommend an inlay or onlay if:
- You have a cavity too large for a traditional filling
- You need to replace an old filling that has failed or cracked
- A portion of your tooth is damaged but the remaining structure is still strong
- You want a more durable, natural-looking alternative to silver or amalgam fillings
The Inlay & Onlay Procedure
Getting an inlay or onlay typically involves two appointments:
- Preparation and Impressions: We begin by removing any decay or old filling material and preparing the tooth. Impressions or digital scans are taken to ensure a perfect fit, and a temporary filling is placed to protect your tooth.
- Placement: At your second visit, we remove the temporary restoration and place the custom inlay or onlay. We check for fit and bite alignment before bonding it securely with strong dental adhesive. Finally, we polish the restoration for a smooth, natural look.
Caring for Your Inlay or Onlay
Inlays and onlays require the same care as your natural teeth:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss regularly to prevent decay along the edges
- Avoid biting hard objects like ice or pens
- Visit us for regular checkups and cleanings
Strong. Beautiful. Built to Last.
Inlays and onlays at Garden Dental Studio offer a smart, effective way to restore damaged teeth without over-treating. If you’re looking for a long-lasting, conservative solution, we’re here to help.
Schedule your consultation today to learn if inlays or onlays are right for your smile!