Skip to content

Inlays and Onlays in Encino

Emergency (46)

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are innovative restorative dental solutions designed to repair teeth affected by decay or trauma without the need for a full dental crown. These custom restorations enhance the strength of your tooth while preserving its natural structure, making them an ideal choice for patients seeking conservative treatment options. At Clove Dental in Encino, we utilize the highest-quality materials to create inlays and onlays that seamlessly blend with your natural teeth, restoring both functionality and aesthetics.

  • Inlays:  These are used when the damage is confined to the interior section of the tooth, specifically between the cusps (the raised areas). Inlays fill the affected area and reinforce the tooth’s structure.

  • Onlays: Covering a larger surface area, onlays extend over one or more cusps of the tooth. Often referred to as "partial crowns," onlays provide more extensive coverage than inlays while still being more conservative than full crowns.

Both inlays and onlays are tailored to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, providing strong, durable, and visually appealing restorations.

Why Choose Inlays and Onlays Over Fillings or Crowns?

Inlays and onlays are often preferred when a tooth requires more reinforcement than a filling can offer, yet does not necessitate the full coverage of a crown. Here’s how inlays and onlays compare to other dental restorations:

Inlays/Onlays vs. Fillings:

  • Durability: Made from stronger materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold, inlays and onlays provide a more resilient solution for repairing teeth, particularly in areas subjected to heavy chewing.
  • Custom Fit: As custom-made restorations, inlays and onlays fit and bond more effectively to the tooth than traditional fillings, reducing the risk of future decay and delivering longer-lasting results.

Inlays/Onlays vs. Crowns:

  • Conservative Treatment: Unlike crowns, which require significant removal of the natural tooth structure, inlays and onlays focus only on the damaged areas, preserving more of the healthy tooth.

  • Targeted Restoration: Inlays and onlays restore only the affected portions of your tooth, providing a precise and less invasive solution while still offering the needed strength and durability.

The Inlay and Onlay Procedure at Clove Dental in Encino

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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, providing a strong and durable solution that protects against further damage.

Cost of Inlays and Onlays in Encino

The cost of inlays and onlays varies based on the size of the restoration and the materials selected. At Clove Dental in Encino, the typical price ranges from $500 to $1,200 per tooth, depending on whether you choose porcelain, composite resin, or gold for your restoration. Porcelain and composite are popular for their natural appearance, while gold is known for its exceptional durability.

Although inlays and onlays may be more expensive than traditional fillings, they offer a more robust and lasting solution, often lasting 10-20 years or longer with proper care. Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for inlays and onlays, especially when necessary to restore a damaged tooth. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate your insurance benefits and offers flexible payment plans to make treatment affordable.

Why Inlays and Onlays Are a Conservative Alternative to Crowns

Inlays and onlays present an excellent alternative to crowns for those wishing to preserve their natural tooth structure. Unlike crowns, which necessitate significant reshaping, inlays and onlays focus solely on restoring the damaged areas. Here’s why they’re a smart choice:

  • Preserve Healthy Tooth Structure:  By restoring only the decayed or damaged parts, inlays and onlays help maintain the overall strength and health of your tooth in the long term.
  • Avoid Full-Coverage Crowns: Inlays and onlays require minimal preparation compared to crowns, making them less invasive while still offering durability.
  • Long-Lasting Results: Made from robust materials, inlays and onlays can endure normal chewing and biting forces for many years. With proper care, they can last for decades, providing an attractive and durable 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 symptoms, our dental team at Clove Dental in Encino can assess your condition and recommend the most suitable treatment option for restoring your tooth’s strength and appearance.

Schedule Your Inlay and Onlay Consultation in Encino Today

At Clove Dental, we specialize in high-quality inlays and onlays that restore damaged teeth while preserving your natural tooth structure. If you’re seeking a durable, long-lasting solution to revitalize your smile, schedule a consultation with our experienced team in Encino today.

Book Your Appointment Today:

Call Us: 818-907-6736
Visit Us: 16542 Ventura Blvd #505, Encino, CA 91436
Online Scheduling: You can easily book your appointment online for a time that fits your schedule.

Restore your smile with strong, long-lasting inlays and onlays from Clove Dental in Encino

Save up to 60% by joining the Clove Care Plan

Concierge dentistry at affordable prices, paid monthly or annually for flexibility.

Learn More