# Inlays and Onlays

> When more than half of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged a dentist will often use an inlay or onlay.

*Source: https://www.mcgannfamilydental.com/dental-services/inlays-and-onlays*

### Inlays and Onlays at McGann Family Dental: Precision Restoration for Damaged Teeth

When decay or damage affects more than half of a tooth’s surface, inlays and onlays can provide a durable, aesthetically pleasing solution. These restorations are custom-made to repair and reinforce damaged teeth, preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.

### What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are types of restorations designed to repair damaged or decayed areas of a tooth. Made from porcelain, composite resin, or sometimes gold, these pieces are bonded directly to the tooth, offering a seamless and resilient repair.

- **Inlays**: Used to restore damage within the cusps (top edges) of the tooth, inlays fit neatly into the tooth’s grooves, similar to a filling but with enhanced durability.
- **Onlays**: When damage extends over one or more of the tooth’s cusps, an onlay provides more extensive coverage, offering a more substantial restoration without the need for a full crown.

Porcelain is the most popular choice for these restorations, as it blends naturally with the color of your teeth and provides lasting strength.

### Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays offer several advantages over traditional fillings and crowns:

- **Strength and Durability**: These restorations can increase tooth strength by up to 75%, helping to prevent future damage.
- **Conservative Treatment**: Unlike crowns, inlays and onlays require minimal enamel removal, preserving more of your natural tooth structure.
- **Seamless Appearance**: Porcelain inlays and onlays blend naturally with surrounding teeth, maintaining the aesthetic of your smile.
- **Long-Lasting**: With proper care, inlays and onlays can last from 10 to 30 years, providing a reliable, cost-effective solution.

### When Are Inlays and Onlays Recommended?

Inlays and onlays are suitable for patients with:

- Moderate decay or damage that doesn’t require a full crown
- Fractured teeth or weakened areas that need reinforcement
- Worn-out or fractured fillings that need replacement
- Cosmetic goals, such as reshaping or enhancing a tooth’s appearance

Our team will assess your teeth and help determine if an inlay or onlay is the best solution for restoring your smile.

### The Inlay and Onlay Procedure

The process for inlays and onlays is straightforward and typically requires only one visit:

**Preparation**: The damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is shaped to accommodate the restoration.

**Impressions**: We take precise digital impressions of the prepared tooth, which guide the creation of your custom inlay or onlay.

**Application**: The inlay or onlay is securely bonded to the tooth using a high-strength adhesive, then polished to match the natural contour and color of your tooth.

### Discover the Benefits of Inlays and Onlays with McGann Family Dental

Inlays and onlays offer a conservative, effective solution for restoring damaged teeth while enhancing their strength and appearance. Contact McGann Family Dental today to learn more about how these restorations can benefit your smile and schedule a consultation.