What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma but don’t require a full dental crown. They offer a more conservative approach compared to crowns while providing a stronger and more durable solution than traditional fillings. At Clove Dental in Ventura, we offer high-quality inlays and onlays that restore your tooth’s function and aesthetics with a natural look and feel.

Inlays: An inlay is used when the damage or decay is contained within the cusps (the raised points) of a tooth. It fills the area inside the cusps and provides strength to the tooth.
Onlays: Onlays are used when the damage extends beyond the cusps and covers one or more of the tooth’s points. Sometimes called a “partial crown,” onlays offer more coverage than inlays but are still a more conservative option than a full crown.

Both inlays and onlays are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing long-lasting strength and durability.

Inlays/Onlays vs. Fillings:

Stronger and More Durable: Inlays and onlays are crafted from high-quality materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold, which makes them more durable and longer-lasting than traditional fillings. Unlike fillings, inlays and onlays are custom-made to fit your tooth precisely, providing a stronger bond and better protection.
Better for Larger Areas of Decay: If you have a large cavity or area of decay, a traditional filling might not provide enough support for your tooth. Inlays and onlays are ideal for larger areas, providing more stability and reducing the risk of future decay or damage.

Inlays/Onlays vs. Crowns:

Conservative Treatment: Unlike crowns, which require the removal of a significant amount of the tooth structure, inlays and onlays preserve more of your natural tooth. This conservative approach helps maintain the long-term strength and health of your tooth.
Targeted Restoration: Crowns cover the entire surface of the tooth, while inlays and onlays only repair the damaged or decayed portion. This allows us to protect your healthy tooth structure while restoring the affected areas with a strong and durable solution.

The Inlay and Onlay Procedure at Clove Dental in Ventura

Getting an inlay or onlay at Clove Dental is a simple, two-step process that ensures your tooth is restored with precision and care.

Initial Consultation and Preparation:
During your first visit, our dentist will remove any decayed or damaged parts of the tooth and prepare it for the inlay or onlay. After cleaning the tooth, we’ll take an impression or digital scan to create a custom-fit restoration. A temporary filling may be placed on the tooth to protect it until your inlay or onlay is ready.
Custom Inlay/Onlay Placement:
Once your custom inlay or onlay is ready, you’ll return for a second appointment where it will be bonded securely to your tooth. The restoration is placed with precision, and our dentist will ensure it fits perfectly and provides a comfortable bite. Any necessary adjustments will be made, and the inlay or onlay will be polished to match your natural teeth.

After the procedure, you’ll have a restored tooth that looks and feels natural, with the strength to withstand normal chewing and biting for years to come.

Cost of Inlays and Onlays in Ventura

The cost of inlays and onlays can vary depending on the size of the restoration and the material used. At Clove Dental in Ventura, the typical cost for inlays and onlays ranges from $500 to $1,200 per tooth. This price depends on whether the restoration is made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold, with porcelain and composite being the most common due to their natural appearance.

While inlays and onlays are generally more expensive than fillings, they are more affordable than crowns and provide a longer-lasting solution. Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of inlays and onlays, especially if they are medically necessary to restore damaged teeth. Our team at Clove Dental will help you understand your insurance coverage and offer flexible payment options to ensure your treatment is affordable.

Why Inlays and Onlays Are a Conservative Alternative to Crowns

Inlays and onlays are the perfect balance between conserving your natural tooth and providing a durable, long-lasting restoration. Unlike crowns, which require the removal of a significant amount of the tooth structure, inlays and onlays focus on preserving as much of your tooth as possible. Here’s why they’re an excellent alternative:

Preservation of Tooth Structure: Inlays and onlays are designed to only repair the damaged portion of the tooth, leaving the healthy parts untouched. This helps maintain the overall strength and health of the tooth.
Less Invasive Than Crowns: Crowns require reshaping the entire tooth to accommodate the restoration, while inlays and onlays are much less invasive. This conservative approach reduces the risk of further damage and ensures a longer-lasting, healthier tooth.
Long-Lasting Results: Inlays and onlays are made from durable materials that can last 10-20 years or more with proper care. Their precision fit and strong bond help protect the tooth from future damage, providing long-term stability and strength.

Signs You Might Need an Inlay or Onlay

Not sure if an inlay or onlay is right for you? Here are some signs that you might benefit from this type of restoration:

You have a large cavity or area of decay that can’t be repaired with a simple filling.
You experience tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
You have visible cracks, damage, or wear on your teeth that compromise their structure.
You have an old filling that needs to be replaced with a more durable solution.
You experience pain when chewing or biting, indicating the need for reinforcement.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, our dental team at Clove Dental in Ventura can help determine whether an inlay or onlay is the best option for restoring your tooth.

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Inlays and Onlays in Ventura

Precise, Durable Tooth Restorations at Clove Dental