Dental Inlays and Onlays

Dental Inlays and Onlays for Tooth Restoration in Northeast Edmonton

At Victoria Trail Dental, dental inlays and onlays are used to restore teeth affected by mild to moderate decay or damage while preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible. These restorations provide strength and stability when a standard filling is not sufficient, but a full dental crown is not required.

Inlays and onlays offer a conservative restorative option that supports both function and long-term oral health.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair damaged areas of a tooth. They are fabricated outside the mouth and bonded securely to the tooth for precise fit and durability.

• Inlays fit within the grooves of the tooth and restore the area between the cusps on the chewing surface. They are typically used when damage is limited to the central portion of the tooth.
• Onlays extend over one or more cusps and provide additional coverage when the biting surface or outer ridges of the tooth are weakened. They are sometimes referred to as partial crowns.

Both restorations are made from durable, tooth-coloured materials designed to blend naturally with surrounding teeth.

When Inlays and Onlays May Be Recommended

Dental inlays and onlays may be recommended when:

• A tooth has moderate decay or damage
• A filling would not provide adequate support
• A crown would remove more tooth structure than necessary
• Long-term strength and stability are needed

A dental assessment helps determine which restoration option is most appropriate for your individual needs.

The Inlay and Onlay Treatment Process

Treatment begins with an examination to assess the condition of the tooth. If an inlay or onlay is recommended, the tooth is prepared by removing decay or damaged areas and shaping it to support the restoration.

Impressions or digital records are taken to ensure precise fit. A temporary restoration or protective covering may be placed while the final inlay or onlay is created. At the follow-up visit, the custom restoration is placed, adjusted for fit and bite, and bonded securely to the tooth.

Long-Term Care and Maintenance

With proper oral hygiene and routine dental visits, inlays and onlays can provide durable support for restored teeth. Our team provides guidance on care and maintenance to help protect your restoration and surrounding tooth structure.