Riverwalk
Precision Restorations for a Stronger Smile
When a tooth is too damaged for a simple filling but not quite in need of a full crown, inlays and onlays offer the perfect middle ground. At Riverwalk Dental Arts, we use these custom restorations to repair decay or cracks while preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible. They’re durable, long-lasting, and designed to blend seamlessly with your smile.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations crafted from tooth-colored materials such as porcelain or composite resin. They fit perfectly into or onto your damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance.
- Inlays fit inside the tooth, similar to a filling, and are used when the damage is within the tooth’s cusps (the raised edges).
- Onlays cover one or more of the cusps, providing extra support for teeth with more extensive damage.
Both options are bonded securely to your tooth, offering a natural look and excellent protection against further decay.
Our dentist may suggest an inlay or onlay if you have:
- A large cavity that’s too big for a filling
- A cracked or fractured tooth that still has a healthy structure
- Old metal fillings that need replacement
- Damage that doesn’t require a full dental crown
Inlays and onlays are an ideal solution for restoring both the function and aesthetics of your teeth while keeping most of your natural enamel intact.
The Treatment Process
Getting an inlay or onlay typically takes two visits:
First Visit – Tooth Preparation & Impression
The damaged area is gently cleaned and shaped. We then take precise digital impressions of your tooth to create a custom-fit restoration that matches your natural bite and color.
Second Visit – Placement & Bonding
Once your inlay or onlay is ready, it’s carefully bonded to your tooth. The restoration is then polished and adjusted for a perfect fit, leaving your tooth strong, smooth, and natural-looking.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Choosing an inlay or onlay offers several advantages:
- Restores strength and durability to your tooth
- Looks natural and blends seamlessly with surrounding teeth
- Preserves more of your natural enamel compared to crowns
- Resists staining and wear for long-lasting results
- Improves chewing and bite comfort
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, inlays and onlays may be the most effective way to restore your smile without a full crown. Schedule an appointment with Riverwalk Dental Arts to find out if this treatment is right for you.
Our team will evaluate your tooth and recommend the best solution to help you smile and chew with confidence again.
