Dental Inlays & Onlays
When more than a traditional filling is needed to repair a larger cavity in a damaged tooth and restore its biting surface, WDA may recommend a dental inlay or onlay.
An inlay is similar to a filling as it is made to fit inside the cusp of your tooth and cemented into place. An onlay is a more extensive reconstruction, but allows you to avoid a full crown since much more of your original tooth can be conserved and rehabilitated. Both treatments are highly durable and will last for several years with proper care.
What you should know about Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays typically require two appointments. During the first appointment:
- We numb your tooth before any work is begun.
- Areas are cleaned thoroughly and any decay removed.
- An impression (or “mold”) is made to create your custom inlay or onlay.
- A temporary restoration is then created from the impression and placed with temporary cement.
- You will wear this temporary restoration while a dental laboratory creates your permanent inlay or onlay (approximately two weeks).
During the second appointment:
- The temporary restoration is removed.
- The tooth is thoroughly cleaned again.
- The new inlay or onlay is fitted and cemented permanently to your tooth.
Our staff will provide you with complete instructions on how to properly care for the new restoration, including proper oral hygiene practices and appropriate eating habits.
Dental Inlays and Onlays
are used to treat
- Large fillings
- Broken or fractured teeth or fillings
- Decayed teeth
- Cosmetic enhancements
- Teeth repaired with a root canal
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