What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are dental restorations that are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma but are not damaged enough to require a crown. They are a more conservative alternative to crowns, preserving more of the tooth's natural structure while providing strength and durability. At Clove Dental in Oxnard, our team uses state-of-the-art materials to create inlays and onlays that restore both the function and appearance of your teeth.

An inlay is designed to fit within the cusps (the raised points) of a tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more of the cusps to cover a larger area. Both are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring that your restored tooth looks and feels just like the rest of your smile.

Inlays/Onlays vs. Fillings:

Strength and Durability: Inlays and onlays are made from high-quality materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold, which makes them much stronger and more durable than traditional fillings. While fillings may wear down or become loose over time, inlays and onlays can last many years with proper care.
Customized Fit: Because inlays and onlays are custom-made to fit your tooth, they provide a more precise fit than fillings, which are applied directly to the tooth. This customized fit reduces the risk of decay recurring in the same spot and ensures a long-lasting restoration.
Better for Large Cavities: For large cavities, a traditional filling may not provide enough support to the tooth. Inlays and onlays are ideal for larger areas of decay or damage, as they reinforce the structure of the tooth without covering the entire tooth like a crown.

Inlays/Onlays vs. Crowns:

Conservative Treatment: Unlike crowns, which require the removal of a significant amount of the tooth structure, inlays and onlays are much more conservative. They preserve more of your natural tooth, which is always the best option for long-term oral health.
Restoration of Specific Areas: Inlays and onlays only cover the damaged portion of the tooth, whereas a crown covers the entire visible surface. If the damage is limited to a specific area, inlays and onlays provide targeted restoration without unnecessary removal of healthy tooth structure.

The Inlay and Onlay Procedure

At Clove Dental in Oxnard, the process of receiving an inlay or onlay is straightforward and can often be completed in just two appointments:

Initial Consultation and Preparation:
During your first visit, our dentist will examine the tooth and remove any decayed or damaged tissue. The tooth will then be cleaned and prepared for the restoration. We will take a digital scan or impression of the tooth, which is sent to a dental lab where your custom inlay or onlay will be created. In the meantime, a temporary filling may be placed on the tooth to protect it.
Custom Restoration Placement:
Once your inlay or onlay is ready (usually within a couple of weeks), you’ll return to our office for the final placement. The temporary filling is removed, and the inlay or onlay is bonded to your tooth using a strong dental adhesive. Our dentist will ensure the restoration fits perfectly, checking the bite alignment and making any necessary adjustments for comfort and functionality.
Final Touches:
The inlay or onlay will be polished to ensure a smooth, natural look and feel. Once the procedure is complete, your tooth will be restored to its full function and appearance, with the added benefit of increased durability and strength.

Cost of Inlays and Onlays in Oxnard

The cost of inlays and onlays can vary depending on the material used and the size of the restoration. Inlays and onlays are generally more expensive than traditional fillings but are a cost-effective alternative to crowns, particularly for patients looking to preserve as much of their natural tooth structure as possible.

At Clove Dental in Oxnard, the cost of an inlay or onlay typically ranges between $500 and $1,200 per tooth, depending on the material used (composite resin, porcelain, or gold) and the complexity of the case. Porcelain and composite inlays/onlays are often preferred due to their natural tooth-like appearance, while gold is chosen for its exceptional durability.

Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of inlays and onlays, particularly if they are deemed medically necessary to restore a damaged tooth. Our office can work with you to determine what your insurance will cover and provide flexible payment options to make treatment affordable.

Why Inlays and Onlays Are a Conservative Alternative to Crowns

Inlays and onlays offer a conservative approach to restoring a damaged tooth. Unlike crowns, which require the removal of a significant amount of the tooth structure, inlays and onlays only target the damaged areas. This approach preserves more of your natural tooth, which helps maintain the overall strength and integrity of the tooth in the long term.

By choosing inlays or onlays, you can:

Preserve Natural Tooth Structure: Inlays and onlays are designed to fit into or over the damaged portion of the tooth, leaving the healthy parts of the tooth intact.
Avoid a Full-Coverage Crown: Crowns require the reshaping of the entire tooth to accommodate the restoration, but inlays and onlays only require minimal tooth preparation, making them a more conservative option.
Enjoy a Strong, Long-Lasting Restoration: Inlays and onlays are more durable than fillings and can withstand the pressure of chewing and biting for many years. With proper care, they often last 10-20 years or longer.

Signs You Might Need an Inlay or Onlay

Not sure if an inlay or onlay is the right treatment for you? Here are a few signs that you may need one of these restorations:

You experience tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
You have visible tooth damage, cracks, or cavities that are too large for a filling.
You experience pain when chewing or biting, indicating that the tooth may need reinforcement.
You have an old filling that needs to be replaced or upgraded to a stronger restoration.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, the dental team at Clove Dental in Oxnard can help determine if an inlay or onlay is the best treatment option for you.

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Inlays and Onlays in Oxnard

Restore Your Smile with Customized Inlays and Onlays at Clove Dental