Preserve your healthy smile with dental inlays and onlays
Teeth seldom break or crack predictably. Sometimes, the breakage is immense for a filling and diminutive for a crown. Porcelain inlays and onlays (indirect fillings/partial crowns) provide a perfect solution to restore your damaged or decayed tooth without covering it entirely. If you want to see what indirect fillings can do for your dental health in Riverside, California, please schedule an appointment with Neal Edwards, DDS.
The difference between an inlay and onlay
In theory, these two dental restorations are often used interchangeably with typical fillings, although partial crowns are reserved for extensive tooth damage. Inlays and onlays do the same job, but the extent of treatment differs. Inlays only fill the chewing area between cusps, while onlays cover the biting surface and the cusps. Simply said, an onlay covers a larger area than an inlay.
Modern inlays and onlays can be made from porcelain or ceramic materials. Whatever the material used, patients can be assured of a natural-looking outcome.
Inlays and Onlays to Repair Damaged Teeth
If you think an inlay or onlay might be the right solution to repair a damaged tooth, Neal Edwards, DDS, in Riverside, CA, can help. He will carefully examine your tooth, clearly explain your options, and answer your questions so you can move forward with confidence.
Take the next step toward a stronger, more comfortable smile with a dentist near you.
The placement process
Like a dental crown, indirect fillings need at least two dental appointments. The process starts with examining your oral health to establish your suitability for an inlay or onlay. The next step is preparing your tooth. We drill out the decayed part and sanitize the area to remove harmful bacteria. For maximum comfort, this procedure is done after administering local anesthesia in the treatment area.
Next, we take the bite impressions of your prepped and the opposing teeth to ensure the lab technicians fabricate natural-looking restorations. Since the fabrication process may take a few days, Dr. Neal Edwards places a temporary restoration to protect your prepped tooth.
During your second appointment, we remove the temporary filling or crown and clean and disinfect your tooth. Then, we install your permanent inlay or onlay using dental cement and curing light. Finally, we check your occlusion to ensure it feels natural. Your bite should feel even throughout your mouth.
Inlays and Onlays FAQs
Is a dental onlay/inlay better than a tooth filling?
Dental fillings are excellent for repairing mild to mid-sized damage. However, when there is insufficient tooth structure, a dental filling may not provide the needed protection. A dental onlay or inlay provides a reliable way to repair significant tooth damage without full coverage. They are customized for a better fit and provide better strength and protection than tooth fillings.
Do indirect fillings look natural?
Yes. Our dental inlays and onlays are crafted from tooth-colored materials, such as porcelain or ceramic materials. These materials are customized to match the shade and translucency of your smile. Once placed, your restoration blends seamlessly with your smile to achieve undetectable results.
Does getting a dental inlay or onlay hurt?
Not at Neal Edwards DDS. Our dental team uses powerful anesthetics and gentle techniques to ensure a comfortable experience. Patients describe the sensation as mild pressure, not pain. If you are anxious about your treatment, let us know. We offer sedation to help make your experience stress-free. Some mild sensitivity afterward is normal, but it’s mild and manageable.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure for dental onlays is similar to that for crowns. We can complete the treatment in two visits. In the initial visit, we extract the affected part of the tooth and create accurate impressions to guarantee a proper fit. During the second visit, we check the fit of your restoration and bond it in place with durable adhesives.
How long do dental inlays/onlays last?
With proper maintenance, dental onlays can last 15-20 years or even more. However, their longevity depends on your oral hygiene, diet, and habits such as teeth grinding or chewing hard objects. Keeping up with routine dental check-ups also helps keep your restoration in excellent condition.
What should I do if my restoration falls off?
Dental onlays and inlays are bonded with durable adhesives to provide maximum stability and function for many years. However, your inlay or onlay can loosen or fall off prematurely, typically due to trauma, decay, or natural wear. When your restoration is compromised, it exposes the underlying tooth to sensitivity, infections, or further damage. In such cases, contact your dentist as soon as possible. Prompt treatment helps protect the tooth from further damage or sensitivity.
How much are dental onlays and inlays in Riverside, CA?
The cost of inlays and onlays depends on the size of the restoration, the material used, and the complexity of your case. Because every case is unique, an exact cost can only be determined after a consultation. Our office will share a cost breakdown and possible payment plans, including insurance and financing.
Does insurance cover dental onlays?
Insurance covers medically necessary dental restorations, including dental onlays and inlays. However, coverage depends on your specific dental plan. Our dental office will review your insurance policy and explain the benefits applicable.
Where can I get dental inlays in Riverside, CA?
Dental onlays and inlays at Neal Edwards DDS provide the perfect middle ground when a tooth is too damaged for a filling but doesn’t need a full crown. Indirect fillings are customized to provide maximum strength with minimal enamel alteration. Ready to get started with dental onlays? Call (951) 614-0033 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Neal Edwards and the team.
