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Inlays and Onlays in Santa Monica

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What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are advanced restorative dental treatments designed to repair teeth that have been affected by decay or damage but do not require a full crown. These custom-made restorations strengthen your tooth while preserving its natural structure, making them an ideal choice for conservative treatment. At Clove Dental in Santa Monica, we use high-quality materials to craft inlays and onlays that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring both durability and aesthetics.

  • Inlays: Used when damage is confined to the interior part of the tooth, specifically between the cusps. They fill the affected area and provide reinforcement.
  • 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 while still being a conservative alternative to full crowns.

Both inlays and onlays are color-matched to your natural teeth, offering strong, durable, and visually appealing restorations.

Why Choose Inlays and Onlays Over Fillings or Crowns?

Inlays and onlays are often preferred when a tooth needs more reinforcement than a filling can provide but does not require the full coverage of a crown. Here’s how they compare:

Inlays/Onlays vs. Fillings:

  • Durability: Made from strong materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold, inlays and onlays offer a more resilient solution compared to traditional fillings.
  • Custom Fit: These restorations fit and bond more effectively to the tooth, reducing the risk of future decay and ensuring longer-lasting results.

Inlays/Onlays vs. Crowns:

  • Conservative Treatment: Crowns require significant reshaping of the natural tooth, whereas inlays and onlays preserve as much of the healthy structure as possible.
  • Targeted Restoration: Inlays and onlays restore only the damaged portion of the tooth, providing a precise and less invasive treatment.

The Inlay and Onlay Procedure at Clove Dental in Santa Monica

At Clove Dental, we ensure a smooth and comfortable experience when receiving an inlay or onlay. The process typically involves two visits:

  1. First Visit – Preparation and Impressions:
    The affected tooth is cleaned and any decay or damage is removed.
    A digital scan or impression is taken to create a custom-fit restoration.
    A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth until your final inlay or onlay is ready.
  2. Second Visit – Custom Inlay/Onlay Placement:
    The temporary filling is removed, and your custom inlay or onlay is securely bonded to the tooth.
    Adjustments are made to ensure a precise fit and natural function.
    The final restoration blends seamlessly with your teeth for a fully restored, durable solution.

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 Santa Monica

The cost of inlays and onlays varies based on the size of the restoration and the materials used. At Clove Dental in Santa Monica, prices typically range from $500 to $1,200 per tooth, depending on whether porcelain, composite resin, or gold is used. Gold is known for its superior durability, while porcelain and composite provide a natural tooth-like appearance.

Although more expensive than traditional fillings, inlays and onlays are long-lasting, often remaining functional for 10-20 years or more with proper care. Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost, and we offer flexible payment options to make treatment affordable.

Why Inlays and Onlays Are a Conservative Alternative to Crowns

For patients looking to preserve their natural tooth structure, inlays and onlays are an excellent alternative to crowns. Here’s why they are a smart choice:

  • Preserve Healthy Tooth Structure: They restore only the decayed or damaged portions, helping maintain tooth strength.
  • Avoid Full-Coverage Crowns:  Unlike crowns, inlays and onlays require minimal tooth preparation, making them a less invasive option.
  • Long-Lasting Results: Made from strong materials, inlays and onlays can withstand normal chewing forces and last for decades with proper care.

Signs You Might Need an Inlay or Onlay

You may need an inlay or onlay if you experience any of the following:

  • A cavity too large for a traditional filling
  • Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
  • Visible cracks, chips, or damage to a tooth’s structure
  • A worn-out filling that needs replacement

If any of these symptoms apply to you, our dental team at Clove Dental in Santa Monica can assess your condition and recommend the best solution to restore your tooth’s strength and appearance.

Schedule Your Inlay and Onlay Consultation in Santa Monica Today

We specialize in high-quality inlays and onlays to help restore damaged teeth while preserving your natural tooth structure. If you're looking for a durable, long-lasting solution to rejuvenate your smile, schedule a consultation with our expert team in Santa Monica today.

Book Your Appointment Today:

Call Us: 310-458-4000
Visit Us: 1418 7th St #101, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
Online Scheduling: 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 Santa Monica.

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