Inlays and Onlays

A damaged tooth doesn't always need a full crown. When decay or damage affects a larger area than a filling can comfortably restore, but enough healthy tooth structure remains, an inlay or onlay can repair the tooth while preserving more of its natural structure.

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At MacArthur Dental Arts in Irvine, CA, your dentist evaluates the condition of your tooth to determine whether an inlay, onlay, filling, or crown is the most appropriate solution, and many restorations can be designed and placed in-house with our CEREC® technology.

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Inlays vs. Onlays

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An inlay fits within the grooves of a tooth to restore damage contained within the cusps, offering a durable alternative to a large filling. An onlay covers a larger area and can extend over one or more cusps, addressing more extensive damage without the full coverage of a crown. Both are custom-made and securely bonded into place.

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When You Might Need an Inlay or Onlay

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• Moderate tooth decay
• A damaged biting surface
• A large or failing filling
• A chipped portion of a tooth
• Wear or damage involving one or more cusps

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Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

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Because they restore only the damaged portion of the tooth, inlays and onlays can preserve more healthy natural structure than a full crown would require. They're custom-fitted for precision, made from tooth-colored materials for a natural appearance, and can reinforce a tooth that's been weakened by decay or previous dental work.

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What to Expect at Your Appointment

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After a thorough exam, your dentist removes the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth and prepares the area for the restoration. With in-house CEREC® technology, many inlays and onlays can be designed and fabricated the same day. Once ready, your dentist checks the fit, shape, and bite before bonding the restoration securely into place.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?

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An inlay fits within the cusps of a tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps to cover a larger area.

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Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?

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They're designed for different situations. An inlay or onlay may be recommended when damage is too extensive for a filling but doesn't require a full crown.

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Does MacArthur Dental Arts offer CEREC® inlays and onlays?

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Yes, CEREC® technology is available in-house for appropriate cases, allowing many restorations to be designed and placed the same day.

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Are inlays and onlays comfortable?

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Your tooth is numbed during preparation, so you shouldn't feel discomfort during treatment. Some mild sensitivity is normal for a short time afterward.

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How long do inlays and onlays last?

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With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, inlays and onlays are designed to provide long-term service, though their lifespan varies by patient.

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Schedule a Consultation

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If you have a damaged, worn, or extensively filled tooth, contact MacArthur Dental Arts at (949) 251-8544 to find out whether an inlay or onlay is right for you.