What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are specialized restorative dental treatments designed to repair teeth that have suffered damage from decay or trauma without the need for a full dental crown. These custom-made restorations help enhance the strength of your tooth while preserving its natural structure, making them an ideal choice for patients seeking a conservative treatment option. At Clove Dental in Sherman Oaks, we utilize 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 confined to the interior portion of the tooth, specifically between the cusps (the raised areas of your tooth). They fill the damaged area and provide reinforcement to the tooth’s structure.
Onlays: Onlays cover a larger surface area, extending over one or more cusps of the tooth. Often referred to as “partial crowns,” onlays provide more extensive coverage than inlays while still being a more conservative option than full crowns.

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

The Inlay and Onlay Procedure at Clove Dental in Sherman Oaks

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

First Visit – Preparation and Impressions:
During your initial appointment, our dentist will clean the affected tooth by removing any decayed or damaged areas. After preparing the tooth, 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 final 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 the inlay or onlay will be securely bonded to your tooth. Our dentist will ensure a precise fit and make any necessary adjustments for comfort and functionality. The restoration will then be polished to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.

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

Cost of Inlays and Onlays in Sherman Oaks

The cost of inlays and onlays can vary based on the size of the restoration and the materials used. At Clove Dental in Sherman Oaks, 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 options for their natural appearance, while gold is known for its superior durability.

Although 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 necessary to restore a damaged tooth. Our team will help you navigate 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 represent an excellent alternative to crowns for patients wishing to preserve their natural tooth structure. Unlike crowns, which require significant reshaping, inlays and onlays focus only on restoring the damaged areas. Here’s why they’re a smart choice:

Preserve Healthy Tooth Structure: By restoring only the decayed or damaged portions, 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 a less invasive option while still providing 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 an attractive and resilient restoration.

Signs You Might Need an Inlay or Onlay

Consider inlays or onlays if you’re experiencing any of the following issues:

A large cavity that a traditional filling cannot repair.
Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
Visible cracks, chips, or other damage that compromise your tooth’s strength.
An old filling that needs to be replaced with a more durable solution.
Pain when chewing or biting, indicating that the tooth may require reinforcement.

If you’re facing any of these symptoms, our dental team at Clove Dental in Sherman Oaks can assess your condition and recommend the best treatment option for restoring your tooth’s strength and appearance.

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Inlays and Onlays in Sherman Oaks

Durable and Aesthetic Tooth Restorations at Clove Dental

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Why Choose Inlays and Onlays Over Fillings or Crowns?

Inlays/Onlays vs. Fillings:

Inlays/Onlays vs. Crowns:

The Inlay and Onlay Procedure at Clove Dental in Sherman Oaks

Cost of Inlays and Onlays in Sherman Oaks

Why Inlays and Onlays Are a Conservative Alternative to Crowns

Signs You Might Need an Inlay or Onlay

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