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Inlays and Onlays services offered in Plantation, FL
Inlays and onlays offer a durable, natural-looking way to repair teeth damaged by decay or wear without needing a full crown. These custom restorations help preserve more of your healthy tooth structure while strengthening your smile. At George Family Dental Care in Plantation, Florida, led by Ronald George, DMD, and his team, you can enjoy long-lasting comfort and confidence. Schedule your visit today by phone or online to explore your restorative options.
Inlays and Onlays Q&A
What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are specialized dental restorations used when a tooth needs more support than a filling can offer but doesn’t require a full dental crown. They help restore strength and function when damage or decay affects a larger portion of the chewing surface.
Crafted from strong, natural-looking materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or, in some cases, gold, these restorations are custom-made to fit your tooth precisely.
Inlays are designed to fit within the grooves of a tooth. They restore the area inside the cusps without extending over the edges.
Onlays are slightly more extensive. They cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps, making them ideal when more structural reinforcement is needed.
Both options preserve more of your natural tooth compared with crowns, making them a conservative and reliable solution.
What issues can inlays and onlays address?
Inlays and onlays can repair teeth with moderate decay, fractures, or large fillings that no longer provide support.
They can benefit your teeth in the following ways:
- Repair teeth with moderate decay or damage
- Replace large fillings that no longer provide support
- Restore chewing and biting surfaces
- Reinforce weakened or fractured teeth
- Preserve healthy tooth structure
- Prevent further damage or breakage
They also provide long-lasting, natural-looking results.
How are inlays and onlays placed?
The placement process typically requires two visits:
First appointment
Dr. George removes any decay or weakened enamel and thoroughly cleans the tooth. He then takes an impression to ensure your customized restoration fits perfectly. He places a temporary restoration to protect the tooth while the permanent one is being crafted.
Second appointment
At your next visit, Dr. George removes the temporary restoration and checks the fit and appearance of the final inlay or onlay. Once everything is ideal, he bonds the restoration securely in place and polishes it to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With consistent brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, an inlay or onlay can last 10-30 years. Their durability depends on good oral care and healthy habits like avoiding chewing hard objects.
If you’re dealing with tooth damage and want a strong, natural-looking solution, schedule an appointment at George Family Dental Care today by calling the office or using the online scheduler.