Inlays & Onlays
Our cosmetic dentists may recommend inlays and onlays to restore your teeth. They are a good compromise for cavities that are too big for fillings, yet too small for crowns.
The main difference between inlays and onlays and fillings is they are made in a lab instead of being molded directly onto your teeth. For this reason, they are often called “indirect” restorations.
Advantages of inlays and onlays include:
- Less likely to discolor over time
- Preserves more natural tooth structure than crowns
- Seals teeth and keeps out bacteria
- Remains stable
- Protects tooth structure without extensive reshaping
Procedure for Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are made in a dental lab for the best fit. Our cosmetic dentists often recommend them because they match the contours of the teeth they need to restore.
During your first appointment, we’ll remove the decayed tooth structure and take impressions of your teeth. While you wait for your dental inlay or onlay to be made in the lab, we’ll place a temporary cover to protect the tooth in the meantime.
When you return for your second appointment, your tooth inlay or onlay will be ready. Once our dentists are satisfied with the color, shape, and fit of your restoration, they’ll remove the temporary tooth cover and replace it with the permanent inlay or onlay.
Our cosmetic dentists are extremely thorough and will examine the edges of your dental inlay or onlay to ensure it fits tightly and will remain stable. We’ll also check your bite to ensure the inlay or onlay has been fitted properly. Once the restoration is bonded to your tooth and polished, you’ll be ready to go home.
Learn More
Our cosmetic dentists offer inlays and onlays and other dental procedures to help you smile with confidence. To request an appointment with one of our inlay and onlay dentists call Bander Dental Group at (616) 949-5980.
