Porcelain Inlays and Onlays

What are porcelain inlays and onlays?

An inlay restoration is a custom made filling utilized to repair damage to the tooth’s biting surface. Onlays are similar to inlays however, onlays are used when both the tooth’s biting surface and one or more of the chewing cusps requires repair.

Inlays and onlays are used for teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. They make suitable replacements for fractured older fillings. They have the added benefit of being a more conservative treatment approach than crowns because they don’t require much of the tooth structure to be removed.

A jump- start on your dental health

Porcelain inlay
Porcelain onlay

Reasons for getting inlays and onlays

  • To repair broken, fractured or decayed teeth
  • To repair fractured fillings
  • For larger fillings
  • For cosmetic enhancement

How long does the treatment take?

Two appointments are required for an inlay or onlay procedure.

During your first visit, your dentist will use an intraoral scanner to conveniently scan the teeth and create your custom inlay or onlay. A temporary restoration is placed for added protection until your next appointment.

During your second appointment your new custom inlay or onlay will be carefully fitted and cemented into place. We will make any necessary adjustments to ensure the perfect fit.

Aftercare

Avoid hard foods for at leas 24 hours after placement to give the cement the chance to harden. You may experience mild sensitivity to hot/cold foods. Should this last more than 6 weeks, please call us!

Ongoing care includes regular dental hygiene practice including brushing after every meal/snack, flossing once a day before bed, and an extra rinse after brushing/flossing to get any particles you may have missed.

Feel free to contact us contact us if you have any questions about porcelain inlays and onlays or to schedule a smile consultation with one of our dentists.