Inlays and Onlays in Wyomissing, PA

Classified between a tooth-colored filling and a full crown, inlays and onlays are used to treat decayed or damaged back teeth. Placed on molars or premolars, an inlay covers the concave center portion of a tooth and an onlay covers the center area, plus one or more of the tooth's rounded, upper edges (cusps). Like dental crowns and fillings, inlays and onlays (often called "partial crowns") can be created with different materials, including composite resin, metal, and porcelain. The accomplished general dentists at Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics are pleased to offer inlays and onlays to treat a variety of oral health needs. To learn more about inlay and onlay restorations, get in touch with our Wyomissing or Reading, PA practice today.

An inlay or onlay may be a good option if you have a damaged tooth or a large cavity that is too large for a simple filling but does not need the complete protection of a crown. At your dental exam, our clinical team will examine your x-rays and mouth to determine the ideal treatment for your needs. If an onlay or inlay is recommended, we will discuss the available materials that will best meet your requirements. While some inlay and onlay restorations are made directly in the mouth (such as with composite resin), others are fabricated in a dental lab through an indirect process.

Before beginning your restorative procedure, our team will numb the tooth and treatment area. We are committed to your comfort and can discuss other methods of sedation if you feel anxious when visiting the dentist. Once you are ready, we will gently remove the decayed or damage tooth structure. If you are receiving an inlay or onlay made in a dental lab, an impression of the tooth will be taken and a temporary filling will be placed until the permanent restoration is prepared (which typically takes about 1 – 2 weeks). As soon as your onlay or inlay is ready, our team will carefully set it in place and then bond it to your tooth. We may polish the borders or adjust the fit for an even and comfortable bite.

If only local anesthesia is used, you will be able to leave after the procedure and return to your normal daily activities. You may need a friend or family member to drive you home if you received oral-conscious sedation. You may feel some sensitivity for a few days once your inlay or onlay is placed, but this should subside on its own. Please contact Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics if you have any issues after your visit. Inlays and onlays can be taken care of in the same manner as natural teeth with daily brushing and flossing. At each of your dental examinations and cleanings with our team at Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics, we will assess the wear and health of your onlay or inlay restoration. With appropriate care, however, it can last for several years.

Inlays and onlays are a common procedure for dental cavities and other issues and are often covered, at least in part, by dental insurance. Our financial team will talk to your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage before determining any personal costs. During your visit at Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics, we will personalize your treatment plan with restorative materials to match your budget and needs. Our staff can also provide information on the convenient forms of payments we accept, including flexible and interest-free patient financing.

How long do inlays and onlays last?
Inlays and onlays typically last between 20 – 30 years. We will provide at-home care instructions to help you get the longest life out of your inlays and onlays.

What happens if my inlay or onlay breaks?
If your dental inlays or onlays break, contact our Wyomissing, PA office right away. We will assess the damage and do our best to restore it.

Can inlays or onlays be adjusted?
When you get dental inlays or onlays at our Wyomissing office, we place them very precisely. However, if it needs to be adjusted, we can typically make adjustments.

At Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics, our expert team of dentists is pleased to offer custom inlay and onlay restorative solutions to patients in Wyomissing and Reading, PA. Falling between a simple filling and full crown, inlays and onlays are often an excellent choice when it comes to treating moderately damaged or decayed teeth. To learn more about your options for bringing health back to your smile, reach out to our friendly practice and schedule your visit today.