Inlays and Onlays

in Cary, IL

If you have a damaged tooth or an area of decay that is too large for a filling but doesn’t require a dental crown, an inlay or an onlay may be the ideal solution. At Cary Family Dental, we provide custom dental inlays and dental onlays designed to strengthen teeth while preserving as much healthy structure as possible.

 

As an experienced restorative dentist, we help patients from Cary, Crystal Lake, Lake in the Hills, and Fox River Grove restore healthy, confident smiles with long-lasting, natural-looking restorations. Contact us today to learn more and schedule!

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What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that repair teeth affected by decay, fractures, or worn enamel. They are crafted to fit each tooth precisely and are bonded into place for exceptional strength and durability.

  • Dental inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth and repair damage that does not extend to the cusps.
  • Dental onlays cover one or more cusps, making them bigger than inlays but still a more conservative alternative to a full dental crown.

The Inlay and Onlay Process

The inlay/onlay process typically involves two appointments. During your first visit, Dr. Patel removes any decay or damaged tooth structure and prepares the tooth. Impressions are then taken so your custom restoration can be fabricated for a precise fit. A temporary restoration may be placed while your permanent inlay or onlay is created.

At your follow-up visit, your custom restoration is bonded securely to your tooth, polished, and adjusted to ensure a comfortable bite. The result is a durable tooth restoration that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

Restore Your Smile with Conservative Dentistry

Custom porcelain inlays and porcelain onlays offer an attractive, durable solution for damaged teeth while preserving healthy tooth structure. Whether you live in Cary or nearby Crystal Lake, Lake in the Hills, or Fox River Grove, our team is committed to providing personalized care and lasting results. Contact Cary Family Dental today to schedule a consultation and learn whether inlays and onlays are right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?

An inlay fits within the grooves of a tooth and repairs damage that does not involve the cusps. An onlay extends over one or more cusps, providing additional coverage and strength for teeth with more extensive damage.

When would I need an inlay or onlay instead of a filling?

Dr. Patel may recommend an inlay or onlay when a cavity or fracture is too large for a traditional filling but not severe enough to require a dental crown. These restorations preserve more natural tooth structure than crowns, so we utilize them whenever possible.

Are porcelain inlays and onlays natural-looking?

Porcelain inlays and porcelain onlays are color-matched to your surrounding teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from your natural smile while providing excellent strength and stain resistance.

Am I a candidate for an inlay or onlay?

You may be a candidate if you have a tooth with moderate decay, a fractured filling, or minor structural damage that does not require a crown. During your examination, Dr. Patel will evaluate your tooth and recommend the most appropriate restoration based on its condition.

Cary Family Dental in Cary Bryan T.

“My family of six has used Cary Family Dental for OVER SEVEN YEARS. Dr. Patel is extremely professional, as is his entire staff. Emily, one of the lead hygienists, is fantastic. Expect top-notch cleanliness along with an ultra modern facility. He is on the cutting-edge of new dental technology. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.”

Cary Family Dental in Cary Gerard R.

“It is always a pleasant time to visit Cary Family Dental. All the young ladies are smiling and do not ever appear to have a bad day. It seems like a great place to work. Dr. Patel has done a tremendous job on my new teeth and has restored my smile. Thank you.”

Cary Family Dental in Cary Linsay A

“Dr. Patel is extremely professional and very friendly. He really gets to know you and your family and cares about your needs. The staff and dental hygienists are so wonderful and very gentle with your mouth. I just moved to Cary recently. I was worried about having a new dentist, but Cary Family Dental made us feel right at home. We are so thankful we found them!”

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Schedule your appointment online today!