General Dentistry · Pikesville, MD
Stronger than a filling, more conservative than a crown
When more than half of a tooth’s biting surface is damaged, an inlay or onlay restores it. Bonded directly to the tooth, these porcelain restorations can increase a tooth’s strength by up to 75 percent.
Inlays & Onlays in Pikesville, MD
When more than half of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged, a dentist will often use an inlay or onlay. Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin, and are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth.
An inlay, which is similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay but extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth. Traditionally gold was the material of choice, but porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and its color, which can match the natural color of your teeth.
For our Pikesville patients, an onlay is often the right middle ground: when a tooth is too damaged for a simple filling but does not need a full crown, an onlay conserves healthy tooth structure while restoring strength.
Why patients choose them
The benefits of inlays & onlays
Increases tooth strength
Bonded directly onto the tooth with high-strength resins, inlays and onlays can increase the strength of a tooth by up to 75 percent.
Conserves the tooth
Where the damage is not extensive enough to merit an entire crown, an onlay provides a very good, more conservative alternative.
Natural appearance
Porcelain inlays and onlays can be matched to the natural color of your teeth for a seamless result.
Long-lasting
Because they strengthen rather than weaken the tooth, inlays and onlays can last from 10 to 30 years.
What to expect
The inlays & onlays process
- 01
Prepare the tooth
The filling being replaced or the damaged area of the tooth is removed and the tooth is prepared for the restoration.
- 02
Impression and temporary
An impression is taken to ensure proper fit and bite and sent to a lab, and a temporary sealant is placed on the tooth.
- 03
Check the fit
At the second appointment the temporary sealant is removed and our doctors confirm the inlay or onlay fits correctly.
- 04
Bond and polish
Once the fit is satisfactory, the restoration is bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.
Common Questions
Inlays & Onlays questions
Not seeing your question? Call the office at (410) 594-9500 and someone will actually pick up.
Interested in inlays & onlays?
Our doctors will tell you honestly whether inlays & onlays are the right choice for your smile. Call our Pikesville office to schedule a consultation.