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Inlays and Onlays in Santa Monica
At Clove Dental in Santa Monica, we offer high-quality inlays and onlays to restore damaged teeth with strength, durability, and a natural appearance. Whether you have a cavity that’s too large for a filling or a fractured tooth that doesn’t require a full crown, inlays and onlays provide a long-lasting, conservative solution. Our expert team ensures a seamless fit, restoring your smile’s function and aesthetics with precision.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair teeth that have sustained moderate damage or decay. They are often considered an intermediate solution between fillings and crowns.
- Inlays: These are placed within the cusps (chewing surface) of a tooth, offering reinforcement without covering the entire structure.
- Onlays: These extend over one or more cusps, providing extra protection for more extensive damage.
Signs You Might Need an Inlay or Onlay
Wondering if an inlay or onlay is the right choice for you? Here are some common signs that you might benefit from this treatment:
- Moderate Tooth Decay – If a cavity is too large for a standard filling but not severe enough for a crown, an inlay or onlay may be the ideal solution.
- Cracked or Fractured Teeth – Teeth that have minor structural damage but do not require a full crown can be effectively reinforced.
- Worn-Down Teeth – If grinding (bruxism) or wear has weakened your tooth, an onlay can provide additional support.
- Replacement for Old Fillings – If your old fillings have become loose, damaged, or discolored, an inlay or onlay can offer a more durable and aesthetic solution.
- Sensitivity or Weakness – If a tooth feels sensitive when biting or chewing, a stronger, custom-made restoration may be needed.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Choosing inlays and onlays over traditional fillings or crowns comes with several advantages:
Stronger Than Fillings
Preserve More of Your Natural Tooth
Durable and Long-Lasting
Natural Appearance
Better Fit and Function
Resistant to Stains and Wear
The Inlays and Onlays Procedure at Clove Dental
Our state-of-the-art process ensures a seamless and comfortable experience for our patients:
- Comprehensive Examination: We evaluate your tooth using digital imaging to determine if an inlay or onlay is the best option.
- Tooth Preparation: We remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth while preserving as much of the healthy structure as possible.
- Impression and Custom Design: A digital or physical impression is taken to create a precisely fitted inlay or onlay that matches your natural tooth shape and color.
- Temporary Restoration (if needed): A temporary filling may be placed to protect your tooth while your custom restoration is being crafted.
- Final Placement and Bonding: Once your inlay or onlay is ready, we bond it securely to your tooth for a strong and natural finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
No! They are custom-made to fit perfectly, so once placed, they feel just like your natural tooth, restoring function and comfort.
