One type of restoration method offered is inlays and onlays.

Inlays and onlays are custom made outside of the mouth to fit the specific size and shape of the cavity and then cemented into place as a single, solid piece. This is an alternative to a direct restoration that is built up within the mouth.

Inlays and onlays are used to repair: damaged or broken teeth, teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, teeth that have suffered a large amount of decay, and discolored teeth. This restoration can also be used to fill in gaps in places where there is no contact with neighboring teeth. This treatment fits with into the mouth like a direct restoration but is three times more resistant to abraision that a patient’s natural teeth.

Before an inlay or onlay prosthesis can be prepared and inserted into the mouth, patients undergo a thorough evaluation to ensure that the resoration will fit seamlessly with the rest of the teeth. The evaluation includes a full cleaning and measurement of the carious or damaged teeth. After that, patients are fitted with a temporary filling before the dentist takes a cast of the teeth that is used by the laboratory technitians to craft the inlay or onlay.

Once the prosthesis has been molded and set, the patient returns for a second appointment where the temporary filling is removed and the inlay or onlay is fitted and permanently bonded to the patient’s natural teeth. Finally, the dentist checks that the prosthesis is compatible with flossing and makes any necessary last adjustments before cementing the inlay or onlay into place.

Inlay and onlay restorations are long lasting solutions that give the patients the ability to smile with confidence.