A Strong & Aesthetic Alternative to Fillings
When a tooth is damaged but doesn’t require a full crown, porcelain inlays and onlays offer an excellent solution. These custom restorations provide superior strength, longevity, and a natural appearance, making them an ideal choice for preserving your smile.
At Van Orman Dental, we offer high-quality porcelain inlays and onlays to restore your teeth while maintaining a natural look and feel.
What Are Porcelain Inlays & Onlays?
Porcelain inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations used to repair moderate tooth decay, fractures, or old fillings. They are a stronger and more aesthetic alternative to traditional fillings, preserving more of your natural tooth structure.
Onlays
- Used when damage extends over one or more cusps
- Covers a larger portion of the tooth but doesn’t require a full crown
- Often referred to as a “partial crown“ due to its protective coverage
Inlays
- Used when damage is within the center of the tooth
- Fits between the tooth’s cusps (outer edges)
- Provides a durable and seamless restoration
Stronger than traditional fillings – More durable and long-lasting than composite or amalgam fillings
Natural-looking – Matches the color and translucency of your natural teeth
Preserves more tooth structure – Less invasive than dental crowns
Resistant to staining – Unlike composite dental fillings, porcelain maintains its brightness over time
Fits precisely – Custom-made for a perfect, comfortable fit
When Are Porcelain Inlays & Onlays Recommended?
You may need an inlay or onlay if you have:
- A moderate cavity that’s too large for a standard filling
- A fractured or damaged tooth that doesn’t need a full crown
- Old metal fillings that need replacement
- A weakened tooth that requires additional support
The Porcelain Inlay/Onlay Procedure
Tooth Preparation– We remove any decay or old filling material and clean the tooth.
Digital Impressions – A precise scan is taken to create a custom-fit inlay or onlay.
Temporary Restoration – A temporary filling is placed while your inlay/onlay is being crafted.
How to Care for Your Porcelain Inlay/Onlay
- Brush & floss daily to keep your teeth and gums healthy
- Avoid biting on hard foods like ice or nuts
- Schedule regular check-ups to monitor your restoration
- Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth at night
Restore & Protect Your Smile with Porcelain Inlays & Onlays
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth but don’t need a full crown, porcelain inlays and onlays may be the perfect solution. At Van Orman Dental, we specialize in natural-looking, long-lasting restorations to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.