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Dental Inlays and Onlays

Dental Inlays and Onlays

Dental inlays and onlays are used to restore a tooth when more than half of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged.

  • Cost

    The cost of inlays and onlays depends on the size of the restoration and the materials used. You will receive a detailed estimate during your consultation.

    Office Fees

  • Procedure Duration

    Inlays and onlays typically require two appointments—one for preparation and impressions, and one for placement.

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  • Pain Level

    With local anesthesia and gentle techniques, your inlay or onlay procedure is designed to be comfortable

    Sedation Dentistry

Dental Inlays and Onlays

Offered in a variety of materials, dental inlays and onlays are bonded to damaged teeth, creating a stronger, healthier surface. Inlays and onlays are bonded directly to the teeth using special high-strength resins that can increase a tooth’s strength by 75 percent. As a result, they can last 10 to 30 years, and in some cases, where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to merit an entire crown, onlays are a great alternative.

Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, which is similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to an inlay, but extending over one or more cusps of the tooth.

Traditionally, gold has been the material of choice for inlays and onlays. In recent years, however, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and color, which can potentially match the natural color of your teeth.

01.

What is the process?

  • You receive a thorough exam and X-rays to determine whether an inlay or onlay is the best restorative option.
  • The damaged portion of your tooth is removed, and impressions are taken to create your custom restoration. A temporary may be placed.
  • Your inlay or onlay is crafted to precisely match your tooth’s shape and color.
  • At your second visit, the restoration is bonded securely in place and adjusted for a comfortable bite.

02.

What are the next steps?

  • Give your restoration time to fully settle before chewing extremely hard foods.
  • Brush, floss, and attend regular dental checkups to protect your restored tooth.
  • Mild sensitivity may occur temporarily, but contact your office if discomfort persists.

FAQ

  • How are dental inlays and onlays applied?

    Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure. During the first visit, the filling is replaced, or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. To ensure proper fit and bite, the dentist makes an impression of the tooth and sends it to a lab for fabrication. The dentist will then apply a temporary sealant on the tooth and schedule the next appointment.

    At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed, and the dentist will ensure the inlay or onlay fits correctly. If the fit is satisfactory, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.

  • When should I consider a dental inlay or onlay?

    A dental inlay is used to fill grooves in the tooth to restore or repair a tooth after it sustains harm from injury or decay that goes on to affect the cusp of the tooth. Dental inlays are more durable than composite or amalgam fillings, and gold inlays are the most durable.

    A dental onlay is used to repair a tooth with more extensive damage affecting the cusps, tips, or biting surface. Onlays require a temporary solution while the final onlay is sent to a laboratory for proper fabrication.

  • How long do inlays and onlays last?

    With proper care, inlays and onlays can last many years while maintaining strength and function.

Where are we located?

Exterior view of Dinwiddie Dental in Dinwiddie, VA.

Dinwiddie Dental

6009 AP Hill Drive
North Dinwiddie, VA 23803

Hours

Monday: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Thursday: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Phone

804-861-6464

Email

[email protected]

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