What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are advanced restorative dental treatments used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma but don’t require a full dental crown. These custom-made restorations help strengthen your tooth while preserving its natural structure, making them an ideal solution for patients seeking a conservative treatment. At Clove Dental in Beverly Hills, we use the highest-quality materials to create inlays and onlays that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics.

Inlays: Inlays are used when the damage is limited to the interior portion of the tooth, between the cusps (the raised parts of your tooth). They fill the damaged area and provide reinforcement to the tooth’s structure.
Onlays: Onlays cover a larger area, extending over one or more cusps of the tooth. Often referred to as “partial crowns,” onlays offer more coverage than inlays but are still a more conservative option than full crowns.

Both inlays and onlays are custom-made to match the natural color and shape of your tooth, providing a strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing restoration.

Inlays/Onlays vs. Crowns:

Conservative Treatment: Crowns require the removal of a significant amount of the natural tooth structure, while inlays and onlays only target the damaged areas. This allows for a more conservative approach that preserves the healthy portion of your tooth.
Targeted Restoration: Inlays and onlays restore only the affected portion of your tooth, unlike crowns, which cover the entire tooth. This allows for a more precise and less invasive treatment while still providing the strength and durability needed.

The Inlay and Onlay Procedure at Clove Dental in Beverly Hills

At Clove Dental, we make the process of receiving an inlay or onlay simple and comfortable, typically completing the treatment in two visits:

First Visit – Preparation and Impressions:
During your initial appointment, our dentist will clean the tooth by removing any decayed or damaged areas. Once the tooth is prepared, we’ll take an impression or digital scan to ensure your custom inlay or onlay fits perfectly. A temporary filling may be placed to protect your tooth until your restoration is ready.
Second Visit – Custom Inlay/Onlay Placement:
Once your custom inlay or onlay is ready, you’ll return for the placement appointment. The temporary filling will be removed, and your inlay or onlay will be bonded securely to your tooth. Our dentist will ensure a precise fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and functionality. The inlay or onlay will then be polished to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.

After the procedure, your tooth will be fully restored, with a strong, durable solution that protects against further damage.

Cost of Inlays and Onlays in Beverly Hills

The cost of inlays and onlays can vary based on the size of the restoration and the materials used. At Clove Dental in Beverly Hills, the typical cost ranges between $500 and $1,200 per tooth. This cost depends on whether you choose porcelain, composite resin, or gold for your restoration, with porcelain and composite being popular options for their natural look, and gold known for its superior durability.

While inlays and onlays are more expensive than traditional fillings, they provide a more durable and long-lasting solution, often lasting 10-20 years or more with proper care. Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of inlays and onlays, especially if they are deemed necessary to restore a damaged tooth. Our team will help you determine your insurance coverage and provide flexible payment options to make your treatment as affordable as possible.

Why Inlays and Onlays Are a Conservative Alternative to Crowns

Inlays and onlays are a fantastic alternative to crowns for patients looking to preserve as much of their natural tooth structure as possible. Unlike crowns, which require the removal of a significant portion of the tooth, inlays and onlays focus on restoring only the damaged areas. Here’s why they’re an excellent choice:

Preserve Healthy Tooth Structure: Inlays and onlays restore only the decayed or damaged parts of your tooth, allowing us to preserve as much of your healthy tooth as possible. This helps maintain the overall strength and health of your tooth in the long term.
Avoid Full-Coverage Crowns: Crowns require the reshaping of the entire tooth, but inlays and onlays only require minimal preparation. This makes them a less invasive option that still provides long-lasting durability.
Long-Lasting Results: Inlays and onlays are made from strong, durable materials that can withstand normal chewing and biting forces for many years. With proper care, they can last for decades, providing you with a durable and aesthetically pleasing restoration.

Signs You Might Need an Inlay or Onlay

If you’re experiencing any of the following issues, you may be a candidate for an inlay or onlay restoration:

You have a large cavity that a traditional filling cannot repair.
You experience tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
You have visible cracks, chips, or other damage to your tooth that compromise its strength.
You have an old filling that needs to be replaced with a more durable solution.
You experience pain when chewing or biting, indicating that the tooth may need reinforcement.

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, our dental team at Clove Dental in Beverly Hills can assess your tooth and recommend the best treatment option for restoring its strength and appearance.

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Inlays and Onlays in Beverly Hills

Durable and Natural-Looking Tooth Restorations at Clove Dental

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Why Choose Inlays and Onlays Over Fillings or Crowns?

Inlays/Onlays vs. Fillings: