Inlays and Onlays
Restorative dentistry is a precise, yet flexible field with many different treatment options. Sometimes, teeth that have moderate decay fall into a middle ground, where a filling may not be sufficient to repair the damage, but a full dental crown is overkill. Inlays and onlays are used when a filling will not give the tooth enough strength to restore the amount of tooth structure that’s missing.
Drs. Bruce and Kristi Crispin at Esthetic Professionals specialize in high-quality inlays and onlays that restore strength, function, and appearance while preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible. If your teeth have moderate damage that would benefit from this specialized treatment, you’re in good hands with Dr. Bruce and Dr. Kristi’s advanced accreditation and decades of experience.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair teeth that have moderate decay or damage. They are crafted from durable materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or ceramic, and are bonded directly to the affected tooth. At our practice, we offer inlays and onlays composed of Emax, a light, durable material that offers a beautiful, natural look.
- Inlays: These restorations fit within the grooves of a tooth, sealing cavities, cracks, and other damage much like a filling.
- Onlays: Sometimes referred to as partial crowns, onlays extend over one or more cusps of a tooth, providing extra coverage for larger areas of damage.
Both options are minimally invasive and allow for the preservation of more natural tooth structure compared to full crowns.
Our state-of-the-art Dental facility in Tarzana, California.
Our phenomenal practice team
Advantages of Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer several benefits that make them an attractive option for patients:
- Durability: Made from strong materials, they resist wear and last longer than traditional fillings.
- Aesthetics: Porcelain and ceramic inlays and onlays are color-matched to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
- Preservation: Unlike crowns, which require significant reshaping of the tooth, inlays and onlays remove only the damaged portion, leaving healthy structure intact.
- Strength: They help reinforce weakened teeth, restoring both function and stability.
- Fit and comfort: Because they are custom-made, they fit precisely, providing a natural feel when biting and chewing.
Applications of Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are versatile restorations that can be used in many situations, including:
- Repairing teeth with moderate decay that is too extensive for a filling but does not require a crown.
- Restoring teeth that have small fractures or chips.
- Replacing old or failing fillings for a stronger, longer-lasting solution.
- Enhancing the appearance of teeth with cosmetic imperfections such as discoloration or irregular shape.
If you’re looking for a trusted dentist in Los Angeles to restore your smile with inlays or onlays, Drs. Bruce and Kristi Crispin at Esthetic Professionals are here to help. Located in Tarzana, we also serve other surrounding cities, including Encino, Calabasas, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, and more. Our compassionate approach emphasizes listening carefully to the patient and meeting their needs. Schedule an appointment today to find out if inlays or onlays are right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are a very conservative treatment. When using them for a restoration, the dentist is trying to conserve as much tooth structure as possible.
How do inlays and onlays differ from fillings?
Fillings may not provide enough strength when significant tooth structure is missing. Inlays and onlays are custom-made, durable, and precisely fitted, so they reinforce weakened teeth and typically last longer than traditional fillings.
How do inlays and onlays differ from crowns?
Crowns require significant reshaping of the tooth, while inlays and onlays remove only the damaged portion, leaving healthy structure intact. They’re a middle ground when a filling isn’t enough but a full crown would be more than necessary. They are generally used when about one-third of the biting surface of the tooth is missing.
When is an inlay or onlay recommended?
They’re used for moderate decay too extensive for a filling but not requiring a crown, small fractures or chips, and old or failing fillings. Drs. Bruce and Kristi Crispin will evaluate your tooth to determine which restoration is right for you.
What material are inlays and onlays made from?
At our practice, we offer inlays and onlays made from Emax, a light, durable material with a beautiful, natural look. Each restoration is color-matched to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.
Will an inlay or onlay feel natural when I chew?
Yes. Because each restoration is custom-made, it fits precisely, providing a natural feel when biting and chewing. Drs. Bruce and Kristi Crispin listen carefully to your needs and concerns, restoring strength, function, and appearance while preserving as much natural tooth as possible.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
Made from strong materials, inlays and onlays resist wear and typically outlast traditional fillings. They last as long as a crown if oral hygiene is maintained. Their lifespan depends on your bite and oral hygiene, so daily brushing, flossing, and regular checkups help them last.
We’re Ready to Help You Achieve a Healthier Smile
Become our patient.
We offer a full-spectrum of dental services, and our helpful dental team are here to help you schedule your first appointment. Fill out the form below to get in touch with one of our dedicated office staff.