Inlays & onlays for damaged teeth in Cooper City
When a tooth has more damage than a filling can handle, but not enough to need a full crown, an inlay or onlay may be the right middle ground. At our dental office in Cooper City, we use these custom-made restorations to repair the tooth while keeping as much of your natural tooth as possible.
What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom, tooth-colored pieces bonded to a damaged back tooth when the damage is too large for a filling but a full crown isn't needed. An inlay fits inside the chewing surface; an onlay also covers one or more cusps. They keep as much natural tooth as possible.
Inlays and onlays are custom-made pieces that are fitted and bonded to a damaged back tooth. They are sometimes called “indirect fillings”, because they are shaped to fit your tooth first and then placed, instead of being built up directly in the mouth.
An inlay fits inside the grooves of the chewing surface, between the cusps. An onlay is a little larger: it also covers one or more cusps of the tooth. Both are usually made of tooth-colored materials, such as porcelain or composite resin.
When may an inlay or onlay be recommended?
- A cavity too large for a regular filling
- A cracked or broken cusp on a back tooth
- Replacing a large old filling that is worn or failing
- When enough healthy tooth remains that a full crown may not be needed
Benefits of inlays and onlays
- Conservative RepairIn many cases, less natural tooth is removed than for a full crown.
- Custom FitEach piece is shaped to match your tooth and your bite.
- Natural AppearanceTooth-colored materials blend in with your smile.
- Strength for ChewingDesigned to help protect and support a weakened back tooth.
How does the inlay and onlay process work?
- Exam & ComfortWe examine the tooth to confirm an inlay or onlay is the right option and provide local anesthesia. We also offer nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) to help you relax.
- PreparationDecay or the old filling is removed and the tooth is cleaned and shaped.
- A Custom PieceThe tooth is measured so the inlay or onlay can be made to fit it. When needed, the tooth is protected with a temporary restoration in the meantime.
- Bonding & PolishingThe piece is checked for fit and bite, bonded to the tooth and polished for a smooth, natural finish.
Filling, inlay or crown?
A filling is usually enough for small cavities. A crown covers the whole visible part of the tooth and is often used when the tooth is badly damaged or very weak. An inlay or onlay sits in between: it repairs a larger area than a filling while, in many cases, preserving more of the natural tooth than a crown.
The right option depends on how much healthy tooth remains. After examining your tooth, Dr. Rosario Streett will explain the options that make sense for you.
Caring for your inlays and onlays
Care for them like your natural teeth: brush twice a day, floss daily, keep up with your regular cleanings and exams, and avoid biting hard objects.
Why choose our dental office for inlays and onlays in Cooper City?
Dr. Rosario Streett and our team focus on repairs that look natural and protect as much of your natural tooth as possible, with a personalized, gentle approach for every patient.
More than 20 years of experience: advanced dentistry, honest recommendations and a comfortable visit.
Meet Dr. StreettFrequently asked questions
Have another question? Call us — in English or Spanish.
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay fits within the grooves of the chewing surface, between the cusps. An onlay also covers one or more cusps, so it is used when a larger part of the tooth needs to be repaired.
Is an inlay or onlay better than a filling?
Not always. For small cavities, a filling is usually the simpler choice. An inlay or onlay may be recommended when the damaged area is too large for a filling to repair well. After examining your tooth, we will explain which option suits it.
Can an onlay be used instead of a crown?
In some cases, yes. If enough healthy tooth structure remains, an onlay can repair the tooth while preserving more of it. If the tooth is very weak or badly damaged, a crown may be the safer option.
Will my inlay or onlay look natural?
Inlays and onlays are usually made of tooth-colored materials, such as porcelain or composite resin, that blend in with your natural teeth.
Can I whiten an inlay or onlay?
No. Whitening treatments don’t work on porcelain. If you plan to whiten your teeth, it’s a good idea to do so before getting your restoration.
Repair the tooth. Keep more of it.
| Monday | 8:00 – 5:00 |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 8:00 – 5:00 |
| Wednesday | 8:00 – 5:00 |
| Thursday | 8:00 – 1:00 |
| Friday | 8:00 – 5:00 |
| Saturday | 8:00 – 1:00 |
| Sunday | Closed |