Inlays and Onlays

When you have cavities that are too large to support fillings, inlays and onlays can repair decayed teeth while preserving your natural tooth structure. The experienced dental team at Select Dental & Orthodontics in Torrance, California, provides custom-made inlays and onlays for decayed teeth. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about inlays and onlays.

What are inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays are cavity treatments that can repair larger areas of tooth decay than fillings. They offer more protection than fillings but are less invasive than dental crowns. While inlays and onlays serve the same purpose, they have key differences:

Inlays 

An inlay fills in the space between the cusps, or elevated points, of your teeth. They protect the area where your tooth dips inward.

Onlays

Onlays fit over the chewing surfaces, including the cusps of your teeth, to repair larger areas of decay.

After a comprehensive dental evaluation, the team at Select Dental & Orthodontics can determine whether inlays or onlays are right for you.

Why might I need inlays and onlays?

The team may recommend inlays and onlays if you have large cavities that fillings can’t support. While dental crowns can repair severely decayed teeth, they aren’t meant to treat mild damage. Inlays and onlays require less preparation than crowns, so you can maintain more of your natural tooth structure.

What does getting inlays and onlays involve?

Placing inlays and onlays is similar to filling cavities. After administering a local anesthetic, the team removes the decayed portion of your tooth. They clean and disinfect the tooth to eliminate any signs of bacteria. Once they prepare your tooth, they can create your custom-made inlays and onlays in their office.

Finally, the team places your inlay or onlay and cements it in place. They may smooth and polish the restoration to ensure it blends in with your tooth.

How long do inlays and onlays last?

Inlays and onlays can last for up to 30 years with proper care*. Many factors can diminish the lifespan of an inlay or onlay, including teeth grinding and poor oral hygiene. To preserve your inlays and onlays, the team recommends:

• Brushing and flossing twice a day
• Scheduling bi-annual teeth cleanings
• Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth
• Avoiding hard candies, ice, and foods that stick to your teeth

It’s important to visit Select Dental & Orthodontics for regular checkups to evaluate your inlays or onlays. If necessary, the team can replace your restorations or fit you for dental crowns to protect your teeth.

Call Select Dental & Orthodontics today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about inlays and onlays.

*Individual results may vary