How conservative dentistry with inlays and onlays makes a big impact on the health and beauty of your smile
Farhoumand Dentistry is pleased to offer the most advanced materials and techniques to rebuild portions of a damaged tooth or an entire irreparably damaged tooth. However, even with these advancements in dentistry, no prosthetic tooth is superior to a natural, healthy tooth. To support the utmost function, health, and a natural appearance, your dentist in Tyson’s Corner, Virginia, prioritizes the use of conservative treatments like dental inlays and onlays.
What are inlays?
Inlays are designed to fit inside the tooth in the grooved area between the cusps or points. They effectively restore the tooth because they combine advanced dental materials and techniques that bond the restoration to the natural structure.
How do onlays differ from inlays?
Similarly to the inlay, the onlay fits inside the grooves of the tooth. Unlike inlays, onlays also cover at least one cusp or tooth tip. Some patients with greater restoration needs may be better served by onlays rather than inlays. For this reason, onlays are sometimes called “partial crowns,” as they are a step down in terms of coverage and support from a full dental crown.
Why would you recommend an inlay or onlay?
These restorations are largely alternatives to the simple filling. For some of our patients, simply “filling in” a cavity or larger area of decay would be insufficient. The tooth might still be vulnerable to further damage. So, fillings are typically most appropriate for patients with teeth that have smaller cavities. For individuals with bigger cavities or larger areas of damage, inlays and onlays are a conservative alternative to the full crown, which fits on top of the remaining reshaped tooth structure. Full crowns are simply not necessary when the areas of damage are less extensive. These options are also well-suited for patients with worn or old cavities that need repair to restore the strength of the tooth and prevent further damage.
How do you place inlays/onlays?
Farhoumand Dentistry not only practices advanced dentistry techniques; we have also invested in sophisticated computer-aided technologies. Due to our use of the CEREC system, we can make your inlay, onlay, and other restorations (like crowns) onsite. That means we can repair your decayed or compromised tooth in just one visit. After special software is used to create a three-dimensional model of your mouth, we can design the new inlay or onlay and transfer that design to our in-house milling machine. The milling machine then fabricates the restoration from a lovely, tissue-compatible, and strong metal-free material. Once the restoration is ready, we simply apply and secure it to the tooth that has been “prepared” (by removing any diseased tissue).
When a filling isn’t enough but a crown isn’t necessary, inlays and onlays provide the perfect solution. At Farhoumand Dentistry in Tysons Corner, VA, Doctors restores teeth with durable, natural-looking restorations. These treatments strengthen damaged teeth while blending seamlessly with your smile. Call (703) 636-2442 or schedule online at Farhoumand Dentistry today. Refer to inlays and onlays to preserve your teeth with custom restorations that balance strength and aesthetics.
Book an Appointment NowPorcelain Inlays and Onlays FAQs
What are inlays and onlays? How do they protect my teeth?
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations designed for teeth that have suffered moderate damage but still retain much of their natural structure. Rather than covering the entire tooth like a crown, these restorations target the damaged areas specifically. Inlays typically fill the interior of a tooth’s chewing surface, while onlays extend over one or more of the raised edges. Both are designed to restore strength, improve chewing function, and maintain the tooth’s natural appearance. Patients often notice that their bite feels more balanced and secure after the procedure.
Who is a good candidate for these restorations?
Patients who have cracks, fractures, or worn fillings in their teeth often benefit from inlays or onlays. They are ideal for anyone looking to preserve healthy tooth structure while repairing damage. Even if a tooth has been weakened over time, these restorations can reinforce it and prevent the need for more invasive treatments like full crowns or root canals. Dr. Farhoumand evaluates each patient individually to ensure the restoration meets functional and aesthetic needs.
Why choose an inlay or onlay instead of a filling or crown?
Large fillings can sometimes weaken teeth, increasing the risk of future fractures. Crowns, while protective, require the removal of more healthy enamel. Inlays and onlays offer a middle-ground solution, providing targeted support where it’s needed while keeping most of the natural tooth intact. They also offer a more precise fitness than fillings, which can reduce the risk of future decay around the restoration. Many patients appreciate that inlays and onlays blend seamlessly with their smile and maintain a natural look over time.
What happens during the procedure?
The process usually takes two visits. During the first appointment, the tooth is prepared by removing decay or old material. Advanced digital imaging, such as CEREC or iTero™ scanning, captures the exact dimensions of the tooth to design a custom-fitted restoration. A temporary protective covering is placed while the permanent inlay or onlay is fabricated. On the second visit, the restoration is carefully bonded into place, and Dr. Farhoumand ensures it aligns naturally with your bite and adjacent teeth. Patients often notice immediate improvement in comfort and function.
Will the restoration feel natural?
Yes. Each inlay or onlay is created to match the shape, size, and contour of your tooth, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile comfortably. Patients often report that it feels almost indistinguishable from a natural tooth after placement.
How long can I expect my inlay or onlay to last?
With proper care, these restorations are long-lasting, often 10 – 20 years. Maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding excessive force from chewing hard foods, and keeping regular dental appointments can help maximize their lifespan. Occasional adjustments or polishing during routine checkups may further extend the restoration’s durability and ensure comfort.
What should I know about cost and insurance coverage?
The cost depends on the tooth being treated, the materials used, and whether additional support is needed. Porcelain is commonly chosen for its durability and natural appearance. Many insurance plans cover part of the procedure when medically necessary. At Farhoumand Dentistry, we provide detailed estimates and financing options to help patients manage treatment costs comfortably. Our team also answers questions about coverage, making it easier for patients to understand their benefits and plan for treatment.
We have made it just that easy to bring out and sustain the very best in your smile. Call our Tyson’s Corner, VA office today at (703) 636-2442 to learn more about this and other services.
