Inlays & Onlays
Conservative, Long-Lasting Tooth Restoration at Westlake Dental Care
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, you may be wondering what your best options are to restore it. At Westlake Dental Care, Dr. Smith and Dr. Willis offer custom inlays and onlays—a conservative and durable alternative to full crowns that can strengthen your natural tooth while preserving as much structure as possible.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-crafted restorations used to repair damage that’s too extensive for a traditional filling but not severe enough to require a full crown. They are fabricated from strong, tooth-colored porcelain, gold, or composite resin and bonded directly to the tooth.
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Inlays fit within the grooves of the tooth, between the cusps.
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Onlays extend over one or more cusps and are sometimes referred to as partial crowns.
Porcelain inlays and onlays are popular for their natural appearance and durability, blending seamlessly into your smile while restoring function.
Benefits of Inlays & Onlays
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Preserve more natural tooth structure than crowns
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Strengthen weakened teeth by up to 75%
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Resist staining and wear
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Provide a custom, precise fit for long-term stability
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Can last 10–30 years with proper care
The Procedure
1. First Appointment
Dr. Smith or Dr. Willis will remove any decay or old restoration material from the tooth and take an impression of the prepared area. This impression is sent to a dental lab, where your custom inlay or onlay is crafted. A temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth in the meantime.
2. Second Appointment
Once your restoration is ready, we will remove the temporary material and check the fit of the inlay or onlay. If it meets our exacting standards for comfort and function, we will bond it securely to your tooth using a high-strength resin and polish it to match the surrounding enamel.
Is This the Right Option for You?
Inlays and onlays are ideal for patients with moderate decay, fractured fillings, or worn teeth that need reinforcement. They offer a conservative yet durable solution that avoids the need for a full crown while still protecting the integrity of the tooth.