Exploring the Different Types of Inlays and Onlays for Dental Restoration

Struggling with a damaged tooth and not sure what to do next? There’s a reliable solution that fits just right. Our team offers expert care with Inlays & Onlays in Pleasant Hill, providing strong, lasting protection without removing too much tooth. It’s a perfect balance—more support than a filling, less work than a crown. Let’s explore your options together.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are basically types of dental restorations. Think of them as middle-ground options. They’re not as small as a filling, but they don’t cover your entire tooth like a crown.

• Inlays fit properly into the grooves of your tooth, right between the edges.
• Onlays do that too, but they also cover one or more of the tooth’s points or cusps.

So, when a cavity or crack is too big for a regular filling but not serious enough to need a full crown, these two come into play. They’re custom-made to fit your tooth exactly. Once bonded, they feel natural and solid, like your real tooth is back again.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Here’s why people choose these restorations:

• Strength: They’re stronger than fillings. They hold up better under chewing pressure.
• Fit: Because they’re custom-made, they match your tooth structure.
• Appearance: They blend with your natural teeth.
• Preservation: They let you keep more of your healthy tooth than a crown would.
• Durability: When cared for properly, they last for years, often over a decade.

If you’re looking for Inlays & Onlays near you, these are the long-term, sturdy options that many dentists trust.

Materials Used in Inlays and Onlays

Not all inlays and onlays are made the same. Dentists choose materials based on the location of the tooth, your bite, and your aesthetic preferences. Some common materials include:

• Porcelain: Matches the color of natural teeth. Great for visible areas.
• Composite Resin: Less expensive, blends well, but may wear quicker over time.
• Gold: Strong, lasts the longest, but stands out in appearance. Better for back molars.
• Zirconia: Durable and tooth-colored, often used for people who grind their teeth.

At Grafton Dental, we’ll help guide you to the right material for your specific case.

Types of Inlays

Inlays come in several forms, depending on how they’re made and what they’re made of. Here’s a quick look:

• Direct Inlays: Crafted in the dental office and placed in one visit.
• Indirect Inlays: Created in a lab based on a mold of your tooth; they require two visits.
• Ceramic Inlays: Durable and tooth-colored.
• Gold Inlays: Best for strength and longevity.

In some cases, dental care in Pleasant Hill may include digital impressions and faster turnaround times for inlay placements. This means fewer visits and a better experience.

Types of Onlays

Onlays are sometimes called “partial crowns” because of how much of the tooth they cover. Just like inlays, they come in different styles:

• Traditional Onlays: Made in a lab and fitted in a second appointment.
• CAD/CAM Onlays: Designed and milled in-office using advanced software.
• Porcelain Onlays: Natural-looking and often used for front teeth.
• Gold Onlays: Ideal for strength in back molars.

People seeking inlays and onlays often benefit from the flexibility of these options. Your trusted dentist will make sure it fits just right.

Choosing Between Inlays and Onlays

So, how do you know which one is right for you? It depends on:

• The size and location of the damage.
• The strength needed for that part of your bite.
• How much healthy tooth structure remains?

If only the center of your tooth is damaged, an inlay may be enough. But if the damage touches one or more of the edges or peaks of your tooth, an onlay is a better fit. Either way, your dentist will make the call after a thorough check.

Comparing Inlays/Onlays to Fillings and Crowns

It helps to understand where these restorations fit in the bigger picture.

• Fillings are quicker and cheaper but may not last as long.
• Crowns are full protection but require more removal of natural teeth.
• Inlays and Onlays sit right in the middle—strong, natural-looking, and tooth-saving.

Maintenance and Aftercare Tips

Once your inlay or onlay is in place, it’s easy to take care of—just treat it like a regular tooth. But don’t slack. These steps help them last longer:

• Brush twice each day.
• Floss once a day—don’t skip.
• Avoid chewing ice or hard candies.
• Use a mouthguard if you grind your teeth.
• Visit your dentist every six months for a check-up.

If you ever feel discomfort or notice changes in your bite, let your dentist know. Early fixes are always better.

Final Thoughts

Inlays and onlays offer a simple, lasting way to restore your smile without going too far. If you’re ready to explore your options, we are here to help. Our team provides honest answers and gentle care every step of the way. Book your visit today and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier smile you can trust.