Huntersville Inlays and Onlays

Patients throughout Huntersville, NC turn to The Smile Architects for inlay and onlay restorations. Reach us at 704-875-1621 for more information or to set up a visit.

An inlay or onlay may be recommended when a tooth has decay or damage beyond what a simple filling can repair, yet the tooth does not require a full crown. Similar to a dental crown, each restoration is custom fabricated in a dental laboratory and then bonded securely to the prepared tooth. An onlay typically covers a larger portion of the chewing surface, including the cusps, while an inlay is designed to fit within the center of the tooth, between the cusps.

These restorations are built to be durable and long lasting, and replacement is rarely needed once they are placed. Depending on your preference, an inlay or onlay can be crafted from a tooth colored material such as porcelain for a natural looking result, or from a durable cast gold alloy.

Placing an inlay or onlay typically takes two visits. During the first appointment, an impression is taken so the restoration can be designed to match the shape and size of your natural tooth, and any decayed or damaged areas are then removed from the tooth. A second impression follows to confirm that the finished restoration seats securely, which helps keep bacteria from getting underneath it and causing further decay.

That design is then sent to a dental laboratory where your custom restoration is fabricated. A temporary restoration protects the tooth in the meantime, and once the permanent piece is ready, you will return to our office so it can be fitted and bonded into place.

Caring for an inlay or onlay typically involves nothing beyond good oral hygiene at home and routine visits to our office every six months for cleanings and comprehensive exams.

In many cases, yes. When decay is too extensive for a standard filling, an onlay can provide the added strength a tooth needs. Onlays also tend to preserve more of the natural, healthy tooth structure than a crown typically would, while offering more reinforcement than a filling alone.

Pricing can vary based on the restorative material you select. We will go over the cost of each option with you during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.

With consistent oral hygiene and regular preventive visits, an inlay or onlay can often last for many years, and in many cases for decades.

Local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth and surrounding tissue before any preparation begins, so discomfort during the procedure is typically minimal. Some mild sensitivity or tenderness can occur afterward.

Contact our office at 704-875-1621 to schedule your visit.