INLAYS / ONLAYS

A broken, decayed, or otherwise damaged tooth can spoil the appearance of your smile and cause considerable pain.  We offer a variety of restorative options to meet your needs. Veneers or bonding can provide full cosmetic correction and treat minor damage.

A severely compromised tooth can be restored and protected with a full crown, which completely encases it. For problems that fall somewhere in between these extremes, the solution is inlays or onlays.

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The difference between inlays and onlays is the part of the tooth they cover. Inlays, also called indirect fillings, are used to fill a cavity in the side or front of a tooth, when the cusp (tip) is still intact. Onlays, also called partial crowns, cover a larger portion of the tooth, including all or part of the cusp. The procedure for both is essentially the same.

The Procedure

Inlays or onlays typically require two appointments. During your initial visit, The Doctor will carefully remove all decayed and damaged tooth material. Due to the conservative nature of this procedure, the healthy portion of the structure is preserved. Impressions are taken and sent to a quality dental laboratory, where your new restoration will be fabricated.

We use gold or porcelain to restore the damaged tooth depending on your specific needs.  Gold will endure beautifully over time , porcelain, mimics tooth enamel in appearance and strength. The shade can be adjusted to match your tooth precisely, for an indiscernible restoration. When it is ready, you will return to our office for final placement. The doctor will check the fit and appearance to be sure your restoration is perfect before permanently bonding it in place. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, an inlay or onlay can last for decades.

Choosing the best option

Whether you have a crown, inlay, onlay, or another restoration, it will be designed with the skill of an artist, and crafted from the highest quality esthetic materials.

We are dedicated to providing the best solution for each patient’s individual needs.  After a thorough examination, he will recommend the most conservative, most effective option.  Without treatment, a damaged or decayed tooth will continue deteriorating.

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Call our office at (310) 539-8616 and schedule an appointment today.