Inlays and onlays are advanced restorations that help repair teeth with moderate damage or decay. They provide a stronger option than fillings and allow you to keep more of your natural tooth compared to crowns. These restorations are designed to look and feel just like your natural teeth, giving you back confidence in your smile. At Strawberry Hill Family Dental in Surrey, BC, we invite you to schedule a consultation today to see how this treatment can improve your oral health.
What Are Inlays & Onlays? A Modern Approach To Tooth Restoration
Inlays and onlays are custom-made pieces that restore parts of a tooth that have been damaged. They are often crafted from porcelain or composite materials that closely mimic natural enamel in both look and strength. This makes them a comfortable and reliable choice for people who want a restoration that blends seamlessly with their smile.
- Precise fit: Created from an impression of your tooth so the restoration sits snugly without gaps
- Blends naturally: Shaded to match surrounding teeth, making it nearly impossible to tell where the repair begins
- Resilient materials: Able to withstand chewing forces in everyday situations like eating crunchy foods
- Comfortable function: Restores your bite so you can chew without worrying about sensitivity or weakness
Benefits Of Inlays & Onlays For Preserving Your Teeth
These restorations strengthen and protect teeth while allowing you to maintain more of your natural enamel. By sealing the tooth tightly, they prevent bacteria from causing future issues and help avoid the need for more extensive treatment later. Patients often appreciate how these restorations deliver durability, comfort, and peace of mind all in one.
- Preserves enamel: Keeps more of your healthy tooth intact compared to crowns that require reshaping
- Strengthens teeth: Reinforces weakened areas so you can enjoy foods like apples or sandwiches with ease
- Stain resistant: Helps your smile stay bright even with coffee, tea, or other common stain-causing foods
- Dependable performance: With routine care, they can last for many years without needing replacement
How Inlays & Onlays Compare To Dental Crowns
Both crowns and inlays and onlays restore teeth, but they differ in how much of your tooth they cover. Crowns surround the entire tooth and are often used for more severe damage. Inlays and onlays, however, focus only on the area that needs treatment, letting you keep what’s healthy.
- Preserves more enamel: Unlike crowns, which cover the entire tooth, inlays and onlays leave the healthy areas untouched
- Feels more natural: Because the tooth structure is largely maintained, chewing often feels smoother than with a crown
- Adds more strength than a filling: Provides greater reinforcement for teeth that fillings alone can’t support
- Balanced solution: Ideal for moderate cavities or fractures, offering protection without the full coverage of a crown
The Process Of Getting Inlays & Onlays: What To Expect
The process is designed to be efficient and comfortable from start to finish. First, your dentist will examine the tooth and prepare it for the restoration. Next, the custom piece is created and then securely bonded in place to restore your smile.
- Detailed evaluation: Dr. Lee, Dr. Jin, or Dr. Lee will assess whether an inlay or onlay is the right solution for your situation
- Custom-crafted design: Each piece is made specifically for your tooth to ensure a flawless fit
- Strong bonding: The restoration is attached with durable materials that allow you to eat and smile confidently
- Smooth finish: Polished carefully so it blends into your tooth and feels completely natural
Long-Term Care For Inlays & Onlays
Caring for inlays and onlays is simple and much like caring for your natural teeth. Daily brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings help them last and function at their best. Making thoughtful choices, like avoiding very hard foods, will also help preserve them.
- Consistent hygiene: Brush twice a day and floss regularly to protect both your natural teeth and your restorations
- Regular visits: Professional cleanings help keep the restoration polished and checkups ensure everything stays secure
- Smart habits: Avoid chewing on pens, ice, or other hard objects that could stress the restoration
- Healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamins supports strong teeth and gums overall
Preserve What’s Healthy, Restore What’s Needed
Inlays and onlays provide a strong and natural-looking way to repair teeth while maintaining as much of your natural smile as possible. As trusted providers at Strawberry Hill Family Dental in Surrey, BC, our dentists are committed to giving you restorations that feel comfortable and stand the test of time. With advanced techniques and personalized care, you can enjoy both improved oral health and renewed confidence. Call today to schedule your appointment and take the next step toward a stronger, healthier smile.