Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are restorations designed to treat dental decay and damage in a more conservative fashion than dental crowns.
They can be crafted from traditional metals or tooth-colored ceramic materials, and they’re built to last for many years. At Dental Health Centers, our team of doctors can provide customized inlays and onlays. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment at any of our two locations in Pembroke Pines or Miami Lakes, FL.
WE OFFER PATIENTS PERSONALIZED AND COMPREHENSIVE DENTISTRY FROM OUR PRACTICES IN PEMBROKE PINES AND MIAMI LAKES
Our dental experts in Pembroke Pines and Miami Lakes believe in providing our patients with an experience that redefines the traditional model.
We understand the importance of a healthy smile and strive to make each visit stress-free and convenient for you.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Experience exceptional care from our friendly staff and skilled dentists.
FAQ’s about
Inlays/Onlays
We believe informed patients make confident decisions. Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about this treatment, including how it works, its benefits, recovery time, candidacy, and expected results.
What exactly are dental inlays and onlays?
Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to treat tooth decay and structural damage in a far more conservative fashion than traditional dental crowns. These restorations can be meticulously crafted from traditional metals or beautifully tooth-colored ceramic materials to blend seamlessly with your smile. They are built with high-quality materials to last for many years, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for your overall oral health.
What is the main difference between an inlay and an onlay?
The primary difference between these two restorations lies in how much of the chewing surface they actually cover on the affected tooth. Inlays are specifically designed to fit carefully within the grooves inside the cusps, which are the rounded elevations on the top of your tooth. Onlays, by contrast, fit within those exact same grooves but are slightly larger, extending to cover and protect one or more of the tooth’s cusps entirely.
How do I know if I might need an inlay or an onlay?
There are several common reasons why our experienced dental team might highly recommend a new inlay or onlay for your smile. They are frequently necessary to repair moderate dental caries, treat sudden tooth cracks or fractures, and safely replace a patient’s current filling if it has fractured or failed. Additionally, these restorations can be placed purely for cosmetic enhancement to restore the uniform beauty and structural integrity of a damaged tooth.
What should I expect during the inlay or onlay treatment process?
The traditional process for having a brand-new inlay or onlay created and securely placed typically consists of two comfortable appointments at our office. During your first visit, our team will take highly detailed impressions of the affected tooth and place a temporary restoration so that your vulnerable dental structure remains well-protected. Once we receive the completed, permanent restoration from the lab during your second visit, our team will make any final adjustments and then cement it firmly in place.
How will the final restoration feel, and how do I take care of it?
Once your final inlay or onlay is permanently cemented, our dental experts ensure that it fits properly and feels completely natural inside your mouth while contributing to a comfortable and healthy bite. Before you leave our office, we will also provide you with personalized instructions for how to properly care for your new restoration at home. Maintaining excellent daily oral hygiene and following basic diet recommendations will keep your restoration strong and functional for years to come.