Inlays and Onlays Reynoldsburg
For patients who don’t need a full dental crown, ceramic inlays and onlays are an excellent solution.
Inlays and onlays are the ideal dental treatment for preserving your natural teeth structure, treating significant decay in teeth and saving as much of your exisiting tooth as possible. They are sometimes even called “partial crowns” for this reason.
Dr. McKibben, Dr. Ehrbar, and the dental professionals at McKibben Dental are pleased to offer this innovative tooth restoration service to the Columbus area.
When are Ceramic Inlays and Onlays Used?
Dental inlays and onlays are a necessary dental treatment when a patient has tooth decay too extensive for a standard dental filling, but not detrimental enough to need a full tooth implant or dental crown.
Instead of the usual cavity filling procedure of drilling into the infected tooth, removing the decayed components and using a filling like resin, inlays and onlays cover a wider surface space both inside and outside the tooth–while providing a long term solution to further decay.
What is the Difference Between an Inlay and Onlay?
Inlays and onlays accomplish similar oral health goals, but differ in how much space they take up on and within a tooth.
An inlay is used when the damage within a tooth is too big for a cavity filling. Our team will create a custom-made filling to match the exact shape and size of the decayed area. We use our cutting-edge technology and partnership with oral health labs during this process.
Dental onlays also fill a decayed area like inlays, but cover part of the chewing surface of teeth, too.
Both restore damaged teeth and can be made with porcelain or a composite resin to match your teeth color. When compared with your natural teeth, this makes them a virtually unrecognizable cosmetic dentistry solution.
What Happens During the Inlay and Onlay Process?
We start the process with a consultation appointment. Our team at McKibben Dental will closely evaluate the state of your tooth damage and decay to determine if an inlay, onlay or a more extensive treatment like a tooth extraction or crown is needed.
From here, we will build the appropriate treatment plan and utilize the appropriate technology to create an inlay or onlay that matches your aesthetic and restorative needs. This will include working with a dental lab to build a filling that fits the exact decayed area in and on your teeth.
Once your specific inlay or onlay is ready, Dr. McKibben and Dr. Ehrbar will securely attach it for you. In the meantime, you may receive a temporary filling to protect the tooth from further damage and decay.
Looking for Inlays and Onlays in Reynoldsburg and the Surrounding Columbus area?
At McKibben Dental, our expert team specializes in cosmetic dentistry solutions that maintain your healthy mouth and show off your beautiful smile. Call our office at 614-575-9530 to discuss inlays, onlays and other cosmetic dentistry services we offer to brighten and enhance your teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
An inlay or onlay may be recommended when a tooth has too much damage for a standard filling but is still healthy enough to avoid a full crown. Our team will evaluate the amount of remaining tooth structure and recommend the most conservative treatment that restores both strength and function.
With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, ceramic inlays and onlays can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Their longevity depends on factors such as your bite, daily habits, and how well you care for your teeth. Routine visits in Reynoldsburg, OH allow our team to monitor your restoration and address any concerns early.
In many cases, yes. Because they are custom-made to fit your tooth precisely, ceramic inlays and onlays provide excellent durability and help reinforce weakened tooth structure. They are often recommended for larger areas of damage where a traditional filling may not provide enough long-term support.
Yes. Ceramic inlays and onlays are carefully matched to the color of your surrounding teeth, creating a restoration that blends naturally with your smile. Their lifelike appearance makes them an excellent choice for patients who want both strength and aesthetics.
Caring for an inlay or onlay is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and attend regular dental checkups. Avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite hard objects, as these habits can damage both natural teeth and dental restorations. Following these recommendations helps keep your restoration performing well for years in Reynoldsburg, OH.
