At Northview Family Dental in Spokane, WA, we offer inlays and onlays to restore teeth that need more than a filling but less than a crown. These restorations are carefully designed to strengthen your tooth without removing more healthy enamel than necessary. Made from durable, tooth-colored materials, they enhance both appearance and function for a comfortable, natural feel. Schedule your visit today to bring back the strength and beauty of your smile.
What Are Inlays & Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations that repair teeth affected by decay or wear while preserving healthy structure. An inlay fits into the chewing surface, and an onlay covers one or more of the tooth’s cusps for added reinforcement. Both are tailored to your tooth for a perfect, natural-looking result.
- Inlays: Fill the inner portion of a tooth where decay has been removed, restoring strength and shape
- Onlays: Cover a larger area, protecting biting surfaces that experience frequent pressure
- Durable materials: Crafted from porcelain or composite resin for long-lasting beauty and resilience
- Natural finish: Seamlessly blends with surrounding teeth, keeping your smile uniform and bright
A Modern Approach To Tooth Restoration
Inlays and onlays provide a conservative way to restore damaged teeth using modern technology and design. They target only the weakened areas, helping maintain more of your natural enamel and supporting long-term oral health. Patients appreciate the precision, comfort, and visual harmony these restorations deliver.
- Conservative care: Removes minimal enamel while fully repairing damage
- Precision fit: Digital imaging ensures the restoration sits comfortably and securely
- Aesthetic appeal: Mimics the color and contour of your natural tooth for a flawless appearance
- Reliable function: Strengthens your bite and resists everyday wear for dependable use
Benefits Of Inlays & Onlays For Preserving Your Teeth
Choosing inlays and onlays helps restore both health and confidence. They reinforce weak spots, seal out bacteria, and maintain the integrity of surrounding teeth. With proper care, these restorations offer long-lasting stability and comfort.
- Reinforces strength: Adds support to areas that might otherwise require a full crown
- Enhances comfort: Allows you to chew and smile without sensitivity or worry
- Prevents further decay: Seals and protects vulnerable edges to stop additional damage
- Long-term investment: Provides reliable performance when paired with regular cleanings and good hygiene habits
How Inlays & Onlays Compare To Dental Crowns
Inlays and onlays are a more conservative option compared to crowns, ideal for teeth with moderate damage. Crowns cover the entire tooth, while these restorations address only the affected sections, keeping more healthy enamel intact. The outcome is a natural, functional, and efficient solution for many restorative needs.
- Less invasive treatment: Removes less enamel than a crown, preserving natural strength
- Better tooth preservation: Focuses only on damaged areas, reducing unnecessary coverage
- More natural appearance: Matches the tooth’s existing color and shape for a subtle result
- Efficient restoration: Can often be completed in fewer steps while maintaining lasting protection
The Process Of Getting Inlays & Onlays: What To Expect
Your dentist begins with a careful evaluation to determine the best treatment for your tooth. After any decay or old filling material is removed, digital impressions are taken to design a restoration that fits precisely. Once bonded in place, it feels smooth, comfortable, and fully functional.
- Comprehensive exam: Identifies the extent of damage and confirms suitability for inlay or onlay
- Custom design: Created with advanced technology for an exact match to your bite and tooth contour
- Secure placement: Bonded firmly to strengthen and stabilize the treated area
- Polished finish: Restores a natural surface that resists buildup and feels comfortable when chewing
Long-Term Care For Inlays & Onlays
Caring for your inlays and onlays is straightforward and helps ensure their longevity. Regular cleanings, consistent brushing and flossing, and mindful habits protect your restoration and surrounding teeth. If you clench or grind at night, Dr. Leale or another member of our team may recommend a nightguard for added protection.
- Routine visits: Allow your dentist to check fit and condition during preventive exams
- Daily hygiene: Brush and floss to keep the area around your restoration clean
- Protective choices: Avoid biting on hard items like ice or pens to prevent damage
- Nightguard support: Shields your restoration if you grind your teeth while sleeping
Preserve What’s Natural, Perfect What’s Needed
Inlays and onlays offer a precise, lasting way to restore teeth while maintaining your natural smile. They combine modern craftsmanship with conservative care, creating results that feel comfortable and look beautifully natural. Our experienced dentists at Northview Family Dental in Spokane, WA, are dedicated to helping you achieve a strong, confident smile through personalized, high-quality treatment. Schedule your visit today to see how this simple solution can make a lasting difference for your dental health.