Inlays and Onlays Explained: The Middle Ground Between Fillings and Crowns

When you have chipped teeth, signs of decay, or need an old filling replaced, your dentist might tell you that a regular filling isn't enough, but a full crown seems excessive. If this is the case, Dr. Karina Acuña may recommend inlays or onlays. These custom dental restorations preserve more of your natural tooth while providing the protection it needs. 

At 5 Star Dental Group in San Antonio, TX, we use CEREC technology to create these precise restorations in a single visit. Book a consultation to meet with our team and learn if inlays or onlays are right for you. 

What are dental inlays and onlays? 

So, what are dental inlays and onlays? Both are common treatments used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. An inlay fits within the cusps (bumps) of your tooth, similar to a filling, but is made from more durable materials. An onlay, sometimes known as a partial crown, covers one or more cusps and a larger portion of the tooth surface. 

Unlike traditional fillings that are placed directly into the cavity, inlays and onlays are made in a lab or created using CEREC technology, then bonded to your tooth. This makes them stronger and longer-lasting than standard fillings. 

When inlays and onlays are recommended 

Dr. Acuña may suggest an inlay or onlay for the following issues:  

• Chipped teeth that need more support than bonding can provide 
• Cracked or fractured teeth that don't require a full crown 
• Moderate tooth decay that's too large for a filling 
• Old fillings that need replacement with a more durable option 

During a consultation in San Antonio, TX, we can examine the area and decide whether an inlay, onlay, or other option will work for your smile. 

How CEREC technology works 

At 5 Star Dental Group, we use cutting-edge CEREC technology to create same-day dental restorations. After preparing your tooth, Dr. Acuña will take a digital scan of the area. A computer then designs your custom inlay or onlay, and an in-office machine creates it within a short period. Once this is done, the restoration is bonded to your tooth. This removes the need for temporary dental restorations and multiple visits to our clinic. 

The treatment process 

Your appointment begins with numbing the area and removing any decay or damaged tooth structure. Dr. Acuña then prepares the tooth and uses CEREC technology to capture the digital image. 

Once the restoration or partial crown is created and placed, it's polished and checked for a precise fit. The entire process typically takes about two hours, and you leave with a restored tooth. 

Because inlays and onlays preserve more natural tooth structure than crowns, they're considered a more conservative option. They're also incredibly durable and can last several years with proper care. 

Restore your smile with a dental inlay or onlay 

If you're dealing with chipped teeth or moderate decay, inlays and onlays may be the ideal dental restoration option. At 5 Star Dental Group in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Karina Acuña offers same-day solutions using advanced CEREC technology. 

Whether you have questions such as "What are dental inlays and onlays?" or want to learn about your options for partial crowns and more, our team is here to help. Call now for a consultation and discover how we can renew your tooth in just one appointment.