Inlays & Onlays in Daytona Beach
When you have a cavity or a dental injury too large to be mended by a simple filling, an inlay or onlay may be the right solution. Also known as indirect fillings, they’re part of our cosmetic dentistry menu and have a fabrication process similar to dental crowns — once complete, the restoration is bonded or cemented to the tooth for a functional, lifelike result.
These restorations are versatile because they can be made from several different materials, including porcelain, gold, and composite resin. When you visit our Daytona Beach, FL office, our team will review your X-rays and other records with you and help you determine whether an inlay or onlay is the right fit.
Request an AppointmentInlays vs. Onlays: What’s the Difference?
Both restorations fill a cavity too large for a standard filling but too small for a full crown. An inlay fits within the grooves on the biting surface of the tooth, while an onlay extends further, covering one or more of the tooth’s cusps. Which one you need depends on the size and location of the damage, and we’ll determine the right option during your exam.
What to Expect During the Inlay or Onlay Process
After we remove any decay and prepare the tooth, we take a digital impression using our CEREC technology, eliminating the need for messy traditional molds. In many cases, your custom restoration can be designed, milled, and placed in a single visit, so you leave with a fully restored tooth the same day.
Understanding the Cost of Inlays & Onlays
As far as price range, patients can expect costs similar to those associated with dental crowns, since the two restorations are made using a comparable process. One benefit of choosing an inlay or onlay is that you may pay less over time compared to traditional fillings, since these restorations tend to hold up well and require less frequent replacement. Better yet, your new inlay or onlay can often be completed the same day with our state-of-the-art CEREC machine. We also offer financing options to help make treatment more manageable.
If you have any questions about inlays or onlays, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Indigo Dental of Daytona Beach today.
Inlays & Onlays FAQs
How do I know if I need an inlay, onlay, or filling?
It depends on the size and location of the damage. Smaller cavities are typically treated with a standard filling, while larger areas of decay or damage that don’t require a full crown often call for an inlay or onlay. We’ll determine the right fit during your exam.
Do inlays and onlays require more than one visit?
Not usually. With our CEREC technology, many inlays and onlays can be designed and placed in a single appointment.
Are inlays and onlays noticeable when I smile or talk?
No. Porcelain and composite resin inlays and onlays are color-matched to blend in naturally with your surrounding teeth.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, inlays and onlays can last well over a decade, and often longer than traditional fillings.
Is getting an inlay or onlay painful?
No. We use local anesthesia during the procedure, so you shouldn’t feel any pain, and recovery is typically quick and comfortable.
Will my dental insurance cover an inlay or onlay?
Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for inlays and onlays, similar to fillings or crowns. Our team can help verify your benefits before treatment.
How do I care for an inlay or onlay after it’s placed?
Brush and floss normally, and keep up with your regular checkups and cleanings so we can monitor the restoration over time.