Inlays and Onlays in Encino

When a tooth is too damaged for a simple filling but not quite compromised enough to need a full crown, inlays and onlays offer a precise, conservative solution. At our Encino dental office, we use high-quality materials and advanced techniques to restore the function and aesthetics of your smile with restorations that look natural and last for years.

Designed to fit seamlessly with your existing tooth structure, inlays and onlays are ideal for repairing moderate decay or structural damage while preserving as much of your healthy tooth as possible.

Understanding Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are custom-crafted restorations that restore strength and integrity to a tooth affected by decay or damage.

Inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth, between the cusps, much like a traditional filling but with greater precision and durability.
Onlays extends over one or more cusps of the tooth, offering additional coverage without requiring full reshaping like a crown.

These restorations are typically made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold, depending on the tooth’s location, your bite pressure, and aesthetic goals. We design each one to match the color and contour of your natural tooth for a smooth, polished result.

Tooth Preservation

Unlike crowns that require reshaping the entire tooth, inlays and onlays allow us to maintain more of your natural tooth structure.

Strength and Longevity

These restorations are highly durable and resistant to wear, often lasting longer than standard fillings.

Superior Fit and Seal

Custom fabrication ensures a snug fit, reducing the risk of future decay beneath the restoration.

Aesthetic Appeal

Porcelain and composite materials blend in naturally, making them ideal for visible areas of the mouth.

What to Expect: The Treatment Process

Inlays and onlays are completed in two appointments:

First Visit: Preparation and Impressions

We begin by numbing the area and removing the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth. The tooth is then cleaned and shaped to receive the restoration. Precise digital or physical impressions are taken and sent to the lab. A temporary restoration is placed to protect the area until your custom piece is ready.

Second Visit: Final Placement

Once your inlay or onlay has been crafted, we bond it securely to the prepared tooth using high-strength dental adhesive. Adjustments are made to ensure proper bite alignment, and the surface is polished for a smooth, natural finish.

Patients typically report that the restoration feels indistinguishable from their natural teeth within a day or two.

What is the main difference between a crown and an onlay?

An onlay covers only the damaged portion of the tooth, preserving healthy enamel. A crown encases the entire tooth, which is only necessary when structural support is severely compromised.

Is the procedure painful?

Are inlays and onlays stronger than regular fillings?

How long do inlays and onlays last?