When a tooth becomes damaged, worn, or weakened, restoring it quickly can help protect your smile and prevent more extensive dental problems in the future. While traditional fillings are a common solution for small areas of decay, they may not always be the best option when a larger portion of the tooth has been compromised.
At Raleigh Prosthodontics, we use advanced restorative dentistry techniques to help patients preserve their natural teeth whenever possible. Inlays and onlays offer a strong, beautiful, and conservative solution for repairing teeth with more significant damage while maintaining as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair damaged areas of a tooth. They are often recommended when more than half of the tooth’s biting surface has been affected and a traditional filling may not provide enough strength or support.
An inlay is similar to a filling and is placed within the cusps (raised points) of the tooth. An onlay is a larger restoration that extends over one or more cusps, providing additional protection and strength for a more extensively damaged tooth.
These restorations can be made from porcelain, gold, or composite resin. Today, porcelain is a popular choice because of its durability, natural appearance, and ability to blend beautifully with surrounding teeth.
How Do Inlays and Onlays Strengthen Your Smile?
While fillings are effective for many cavities, larger fillings can sometimes weaken the remaining tooth structure. In fact, traditional fillings may reduce the strength of a natural tooth by removing healthy tooth structure and replacing it with a material that does not reinforce the tooth.
Inlays and onlays provide a more conservative alternative. Because they are custom-crafted and bonded directly to the tooth using high-strength dental resins, they can actually help strengthen and protect the tooth.
For patients who may not need a full dental crown, an onlay can offer an excellent middle-ground solution—restoring the tooth while preserving more of its natural structure.
What Is the Process for Getting an Inlay or Onlay?
Creating a custom inlay or onlay typically requires two appointments to ensure the restoration fits comfortably, functions properly, and looks natural.
During the first visit, Dr. Murrell or Dr. McKay will remove any decay or damaged tooth material and carefully prepare the tooth for restoration. An impression of the tooth is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory where your custom inlay or onlay is created. A temporary restoration is placed to protect the tooth until your next appointment.
At your second visit, the temporary restoration is removed, and your custom inlay or onlay is carefully evaluated for fit and bite. Once everything is confirmed, the restoration is bonded securely to the tooth and polished for a smooth, natural finish.
The Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer several advantages for patients looking to restore damaged teeth, including:
- Preserving more of your natural tooth structure
- Providing strength and long-lasting protection
- Creating a natural-looking appearance
- Offering a conservative alternative to a full dental crown in some cases
- Restoring comfortable chewing function
With proper care and regular dental visits, inlays and onlays can provide years of reliable protection for your smile.
Restore Your Tooth Without Compromising Your Smile
Every tooth plays an important role in your overall oral health, and protecting your natural teeth is always a priority. At Raleigh Prosthodontics, our team combines advanced restorative dentistry with precision and artistry to create solutions that look natural and function beautifully.
If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, an inlay or onlay may be the right option to restore its strength and appearance. Contact Raleigh Prosthodontics to schedule a consultation and learn more about your restorative dentistry options.
