They restore teeth with moderate decay or damage, especially in molars, where strength and durability are needed.
Dental Inlays and Onlays
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Cost
The cost of dental inlays and onlays varies depending on the materials used and the location of the tooth.
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Procedure Duration
Typically completed in two visits. One for preparation and impressions, and one for placement.
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Pain Level
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. We use local anesthesia and sedation to ensure a painless procedure.
Sedation Dentistry
Inlays and Onlays in Cary, NC
Dental inlays and onlays are restorative solutions used to repair moderate damage or decay in a tooth that’s too serious for a filling but not severe enough to require a full crown. Made from durable materials like porcelain or composite resin, these restorations are bonded directly to the tooth and customized for a perfect fit. Inlays are placed inside the grooves of a tooth, while onlays cover one or more cusps. Both options strengthen the tooth structure, restore appearance, and help you avoid more invasive treatments.
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What is the process?
1. Consultation and Assessment
We’ll examine your tooth, take digital images, and determine whether an inlay or onlay is the best option based on the level of decay or damage.
2. Tooth Preparation
The damaged or decayed area is carefully removed, and the tooth is cleaned and shaped to fit the restoration.
3. Impressions and Temporary Filling
We take detailed impressions and place a temporary material while your custom inlay or onlay is being fabricated in the dental lab.
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What are the next steps?
4. Custom Fabrication
Your restoration is crafted to match the exact size, shape, and color of your natural tooth.
5. Final Placement
At your second visit, we remove the temporary material and securely bond the inlay or onlay in place, ensuring proper fit and bite alignment.
6. Polishing and Follow-Up
We polish the surface and provide instructions on how to care for your restored tooth.
FAQ
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What are dental inlays and onlays used for?
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How do they compare to fillings and crowns?
Inlays and onlays are stronger than fillings and more conservative than crowns, preserving more of your natural tooth.
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Are inlays and onlays custom-fitted?
Yes—each inlay or onlay is custom-made in a lab to precisely fit your tooth and match its natural color and contour.
Related Services
Fillings and Sealants
Cavities can cause lasting damage if left untreated. Fillings repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, restoring their strength and function. Sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to prevent cavities from forming in the first place.
Fillings and Sealants
Dental Crowns and Bridges
Protect and rebuild weakened teeth or replace missing ones with custom dental crowns and bridges. A dental crown or “cap” is a covering that fits over a damaged, decayed or unattractive tooth. It can even replace a tooth entirely as part of dental bridgework. These restorations look and function like natural teeth.
Dental Crowns and Bridges