A Stronger Smile With Inlays And Onlays
When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but doesn’t need the full coverage of a crown, inlays and onlays offer an ideal in-between solution. These custom restorations repair decay, cracks, and worn enamel while preserving more of your natural tooth structure. At Kewaskum Family Dentistry in Kewaskum, WI, we often recommend inlays and onlays as a durable, conservative treatment option for restoring strength and function.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays work like partial crowns. We design them to fit precisely inside or over the biting surface of a damaged tooth.
- Inlays fit inside the cusps (the raised edges) of a tooth and are ideal for smaller areas of damage.
- Onlays cover one or more cusps, offering additional reinforcement for teeth with more extensive wear.
Unlike fillings, which we apply directly, we create inlays and onlays in a dental lab based on a precise impression. This process allows us to place a restoration that fits perfectly and blends with your natural tooth color.
How the Process Works
Getting an inlay or onlay typically takes two appointments. At your first visit, we remove the damaged or decayed area of the tooth and take an impression to send to the lab. You’ll receive a temporary sealant to protect the tooth while we make your restoration.
At your second visit, we remove the temporary and bond your custom inlay or onlay to the tooth with a high-strength resin. Finally, we polish it to a smooth, natural finish for comfort and appearance.
Why Choose Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer several benefits that make them a popular choice among our patients:
- Long-Lasting Strength: Inlays and onlays can increase a tooth’s strength by up to 75% and may last 10 to 30 years
- Better Than Fillings: Traditional fillings can weaken a tooth over time, but inlays and onlays help reinforce its structure
- Natural Appearance: Porcelain options are color matched to blend seamlessly with your smile
- Conservative Approach: They preserve more of your healthy enamel than a full crown, making them a minimally invasive choice
Is an Inlay or Onlay Right for You?
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth that needs more than a filling but not a full crown, we can determine whether an inlay or onlay is the right fit. At Kewaskum Family Dentistry, we’ll evaluate your needs and recommend the most effective treatment for restoring your smile.
Contact our dental office located in Kewaskum, WI to schedule an appointment and learn more about your restorative options.
