Inlays & Onlays in Fletcher, NC
Precise Inlays & Onlays for Restorative Care in Fletcher, NC
At Williams Family Dentistry in Fletcher, NC, inlays and onlays offer a conservative yet highly effective solution for restoring teeth with moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a traditional filling but not severe enough to require a full dental crown. These custom-made restorations are fabricated in a dental lab and then precisely bonded to your tooth. Inlays fit within the cusps (the bumps on the chewing surface) of your tooth, while onlays extend over one or more cusps, providing greater coverage and strength. Both are excellent for preserving more of your natural tooth structure.
Benefits of Inlays & Onlays
Preserves Tooth Structure
Inlays and onlays allow for the preservation of more healthy tooth structure compared to full crowns, as they only cover the damaged portion.
Durable & Long-Lasting
Made from strong materials like porcelain or composite resin, inlays and onlays are highly durable and can last for many years with proper care.
Custom Fit & Aesthetics
These restorations are custom-made to fit your tooth precisely and can be color-matched to blend seamlessly with your natural smile.
When Are Inlays & Onlays Recommended?
Inlays and onlays are typically recommended when a tooth has decay or damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to warrant a full dental crown. They are ideal for restoring the chewing surface of molars and premolars. If you have a cavity that is large or affects a cusp, or if an old filling needs to be replaced, inlays or onlays can provide a strong, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing solution that helps maintain the integrity of your natural tooth structure.
Common Questions About Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage. Inlays fit within the cusps of the tooth, while onlays extend over one or more cusps.
Inlays and onlays are used when the damage is too extensive for a traditional filling but not severe enough to require a full dental crown. They offer a more conservative approach than crowns, preserving more natural tooth structure.
The process typically involves two visits. During the first visit, the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is removed, and an impression is taken. A temporary filling is placed. In the second visit, the custom-made inlay or onlay is bonded to the tooth.
Inlays and onlays are commonly made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Porcelain and composite are popular for their natural appearance, while gold offers exceptional durability.
Caring for inlays and onlays is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing, and attend routine dental check-ups. Avoid chewing on extremely hard foods to prevent damage.