Inlays and Onlays in Westchester
Subtle, Effective Dental Restoration
Dental inlays and onlays repair teeth with mild to moderate decay or cracks and fractures. Our patients that need a dental inlay or onlay work typically need more than a composite filling, but aren't needing a dental crown. These restorations preserve more original tooth structure than crowns and allow natural-looking repairs, even for cavities previously treated with metal fillings.
What Are Dental Inlays?
Dental inlays repair the chewing surface of your tooth. Whether you choose porcelain or gold, a skilled dentist in Westchester County, NY can create your inlays to match your tooth.
Inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth's biting surface and are fabricated in our dental lab for a precise fit.
What Are Dental Onlays?
Onlays are also created in our dental lab before we fit and bond them to damaged teeth. Unlike an inlay, an onlay covers an entire biting surface or one or more points of a tooth, called a cusp.
This makes onlays an excellent option when damage extends beyond what an inlay can cover but doesn't require a full crown.
Our Process for Dental Inlays and Onlays
Our office uses 3D digital impressions, creates temporary restorations, and bonds permanent customized restorations in a two-visit procedure. This ensures a precise, comfortable fit tailored to your unique tooth structure.
Digital Impressions
We use advanced 3D digital impressions to capture the exact shape and contour of your tooth for a restoration that fits precisely.
Temporary Restoration
A temporary restoration is placed to protect your tooth while your custom inlay or onlay is being fabricated in our dental lab.
Permanent Bonding
At your second visit, the permanent customized restoration is bonded to your tooth for a seamless, long-lasting result.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer a conservative approach to restoring damaged teeth while preserving as much natural structure as possible.
Cost Effective
Less expensive than dental crowns while providing superior durability compared to traditional fillings.
Preserve Tooth Structure
Unlike crowns, inlays and onlays don't weaken tooth structure and help preserve your natural tooth.
Natural Appearance
Maintain a natural smile without metal. Porcelain inlays and onlays blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.
Strength & Stability
Add stability and strength to damaged teeth with easy bonding to the tooth surface.
Gum Health
Perfect contours promote healthy gums and make the restoration easy to clean with normal brushing and flossing.
Long-Lasting
More durable than traditional fillings, inlays and onlays are built to withstand years of daily use.
Chipped and Cracked Teeth
There are different types of cracks that can affect your teeth. Understanding the type of crack helps determine whether an inlay, onlay, or another restoration is the best treatment.
Cracked Tooth
Extends from the biting surface to the root
Craze Lines
Tiny enamel cracks with minimal pain
Cracked Cusp
Damage to the tooth's sharp point
Split Tooth
Untreated damage causing tooth separation
Treatment Options
Your dentist will evaluate the type and severity of the damage to recommend the best solution. Treatment options include:
- Cosmetic contouring
- Dental bonding
- Dental veneers
- Dental crowns
- Dental implants and bridges
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right material for your dental inlay or onlay depends on several factors, including the location of the tooth, the extent of the repair needed, your aesthetic preferences, and budget. Porcelain works well for visible areas with its natural appearance, while gold suits molars due to its durability under chewing force.
Dental inlays and onlays do not require any special care beyond good oral hygiene practices. This includes brushing twice daily, flossing daily, regular check-ups, and avoiding hard or sticky foods that could damage the restoration.
Inlays and onlays are generally less expensive than crowns but more costly than traditional fillings. Many insurance plans cover these as restorative treatment, though coverage varies by provider and policy.
Patient Testimonials
More Testimonials"Dr. Brisman and the entire staff are wonderful. They truly care about their patients. The office is state of the art and the quality of work is outstanding. I would highly recommend Advanced Dentistry of Scarsdale."
— Former Patient
"I have been going to Advanced Dentistry for over 20 years. The care has always been exceptional. From routine cleanings to more complex procedures, I always feel confident and comfortable."
— Long-Term Patient
Preserve Your Natural Smile
Schedule a consultation to learn if inlays or onlays are right for you. Our team will recommend the best approach for your situation.