Inlays & Onlays There are many different procedures available to restore your teeth, such as inlays and onlays. With so many restorative procedures available, you must select a skilled team that can develop an approach to suit your needs. The professionals at Cascade Dental Care are this team. We will use our patient-first approach to restore your smile.What Are Inlays?Inlays are a specific type of filling that is used to replace a damaged section of your tooth. Inlays are premade based on a mold of the damaged area of your tooth and provide an exact fit to your enamel. They are generally made from either composite or porcelain and matched to the color of the existing tooth. However, they can also be made from gold or other metals based on your preference. Inlays have many benefits and are more durable than traditional fillings. They fit within the grooves and crevices of a tooth but do not cover the chewing surface. Our team can discuss the benefits of inlays with you during your visit and help you choose the material that is best suited for your needs. What Are Onlays?Onlays are very similar to inlays. The primary difference between the two is that an onlay covers a larger portion of the tooth’s surface area, including at least some of the chewing surface. However, they do not completely encapsulate the tooth as a crown does. Onlays are used when the cavity or tooth damage is too large for an inlay or traditional filling, but not severe enough to warrant the use of a crown. The goal of an onlay is to strengthen and restore the existing tooth. Just like inlays, onlays can be made from many different materials. During your initial visit, you can review the benefits of each onlay material with one of our professionals. Gold and other metals create the most durable onlays but will not match the color of your existing teeth. Porcelain and composite onlays will blend seamlessly with your teeth and be unnoticeable during your daily interactions. What Is the Procedure for Inlays and Onlays?During your initial visit with our team, a mold of the damaged area will be made. The mold will be used to create your inlay or onlay out of whichever material you choose. It will be ready within a few weeks. When you return for your procedure, our team will start by administering a localized anesthetic to the procedure area. Our goal is always to ensure that you are comfortable during any restorative procedure. After you are properly numbed, they will remove the damaged portion of your tooth and shape the tooth for the inlay or onlay. The inlay or onlay is then placed on the target tooth and secured. Our team will provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure the longevity of your new restoration. This procedure will last approximately 10 years. Inlays and onlays can exceed this lifespan with regular exams and good oral hygiene. If you have a damaged or painful tooth that is affecting your smile, our professionals at Cascade Dental Care can help. Contact us at 360-916-4200 today and book your appointment. |
 Phone360-916-4200 HoursMon - Wed: 8:00am - 5:00pm Thursday: 8:00am - 4:00pm Every other Friday: 8:00am - 4:00pm |
