Inlays Onlays

How Do I Get Dental Inlays or Onlays?

• Consultation: Starting with an in-depth consultation means you can count on receiving the right treatment. We always first explore milder treatments and only suggest inlays or onlays when they are the ideal solution for restoring a tooth.
• Preparation: We will need to get any decay out of your tooth. Leaving even tiny sections of bacteria or decay in the tooth can allow it to continue beneath the only. So we take extra care to ensure your tooth is in perfect shape.
  Impressions: We take an impression of the prepared tooth, using it to fabricate a custom inlay or onlay.
• Fitting & Placement: We once again sanitize the tooth and then set the inlay or onlay into its place. We carefully adjust the material so it creates an excellent seal and feels natural.

FAQs

Will inlays and onlays look natural?

We color-match all inlays and onlays so they blend in with your tooth’s natural color. Once we place the restoration, we precisely polish it so it is flush with your tooth. Generally, these restorations are for teeth that are to the side or back of your smile, so even any minor visual changes will not be noticeable.

Will my restored teeth feel normal?

In general, your treated tooth should feel much the same as before. In fact, inlays and onlays often avoid the increased tooth sensitivity associated with other restorations, such as fillings. In cases when a significant portion of the tooth is replaced, you may feel a little different for a few days. For example, your tongue may rest differently after a restoration if much of a tooth was missing before.

How long do these treatments last?

Inlays and onlays last for an exceptionally long time. With attentive care and routine dental visits, inlays and onlays have shown they can last up to 30 years. After a restoration wears out, you can replace it to keep your tooth in excellent condition. Tips for maintaining your inlays or onlays include:
Daily brushing and flossing
Avoiding extra hard foods
Minimizing sugar in your diet
Routine dental cleanings and check-ups

Are there other teeth restoration options?

Inlays and onlays work best for teeth that have notable damage yet still have a good amount of tooth matter remaining. Depending on the cause and extent of tooth damage, we may recommend an alternate treatment, such as:

• Bonding: Quick restorations ideal for minor damage or cosmetic concerns like discoloration.
• Fillings: Clears out cavities and restores a tooth with only early signs of decay.
• Crowns: A more extensive restoration that involves capping a severely damaged tooth.

Are treated teeth easy to clean?

Cleaning your restored teeth will prove as easy as with your natural teeth. Simply brush and floss as normal, and remember to attend routine dental check-ups. We do recommend being careful while chewing until you are used to your restored tooth. Otherwise, carry on oral hygiene as you normally should.

How much do dental inlays and onlays cost?

Inlays and onlays are in the middle ground between crowns and less intensive restorations. However, the price can depend on the amount of work needed for each case. Fortunately, many insurance providers do cover at least part of the cost for inlays and onlays.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Call our office to set up a consultation appointment for a dentist in Chino Hills. Come in with concerns and leave with a brighter, healthier smile.