Inlays & Onlays

Repair and Strengthen Your Smile with Inlays and Onlays

​

If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, you might be wondering about your options for restoring it. At Bridgewater Dental Center, we often recommend inlays or onlays when the damage involves more than half of the tooth’s biting surface but isn’t severe enough to require a full crown.

​

Inlays and onlays are custom-crafted restorations made from porcelain, gold, or composite resin. They are securely bonded to the tooth to restore strength, protect against further damage, and blend beautifully with your natural smile.

​

What’s the Difference Between an Inlay and an Onlay?

​

• Inlays are used to restore the inside surfaces of a tooth — fitting neatly within the cusps (the raised points) of the tooth, much like a traditional filling.

• Onlays cover one or more cusps and are used for larger areas of damage, offering a more extensive reconstruction while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

While gold has been a traditional choice for durability, porcelain inlays and onlays have become increasingly popular for their strength, longevity, and ability to match the natural color of your teeth.

​

The Inlay and Onlay Process

​

Treatment typically requires two visits:

​

• First Visit:
  We remove any damaged or decayed tooth material and take a precise impression of your tooth. This impression is sent to a dental lab, where your custom inlay or onlay is carefully fabricated. In the meantime, a temporary restoration is placed to protect your tooth.

• Second Visit:
  At your follow-up appointment, the temporary is removed, and your custom restoration is placed. We’ll check the fit carefully, bond it securely with high-strength resin, and polish it for a smooth, natural finish.

Why Choose an Inlay or Onlay?

​

• Strengthens the tooth by up to 75%

• Preserves more natural tooth structure compared to a full crown

• Highly durable — lasting 10 to 30 years with proper care

• Natural-looking results, especially with porcelain materials

Inlays and onlays offer a strong, conservative solution when traditional fillings aren’t enough, but full crowns aren’t yet necessary.

​

If you’d like to learn more about whether inlays or onlays are the right option to restore your tooth, contact Bridgewater Dental Center today. We’re here to help you protect your smile with the best solutions for your long-term health and beauty.