Porcelain Inlay/Onlay

If you need a tooth restoration that looks and feels natural, you may want to consider a porcelain inlay or onlay. We offer several porcelain restoration options, including porcelain crowns, inlays or onlays, and bridges. Contact our dental office to learn more about our holistic, metal-free options today!

What is the difference between an Inlay and Onlay?

Both inlays and onlays are used to repair any damage done to a tooth. They are custom-made in a dental lab from porcelain material and composite resin. We use porcelain inlays and onlays at the Holistic Dental Center of New Jersey due to their highly durable and natural-looking appearance. Moreover, porcelain inlays and onlays blend seamlessly into your smile. 

Inlay

Porcelain Inlays are used to conservatively replace missing tooth structures that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma. Inlays fill in the area between the cusps of the tooth. 

Onlay

Porcelain Onlays are used to replace missing tooth structure that extends to the cusps of the tooth. Onlays are more conservative than crowns and provide a durable alternative. 

How are Inlays and Onlays placed?

Your Inlay or Onlay will require two visits to our office. First, the area of decay and damage is removed and cleaned for the inlay or onlay to be placed. Next, an impression is made of the prepared tooth and sent to our dental lab. They will create a custom-made inlay or onlay to fit the exact dimensions of your tooth. A temporary filling may be used to protect the damaged tooth while the inlay or onlay is being created. We will call you back to our office for placement when it is ready. The new permanent inlay or onlay will be bonded with dental cement.

How do Inlays and Onlays compare to other dental restorations?

Porcelain inlays and onlays offer many benefits over other types of dental restoration, such as metal fillings. Porcelain is stronger and more durable than amalgam so it can last for many years. Porcelain also looks more natural than amalgam and is non-toxic, so it is a better choice for repairing teeth aesthetically.

Retains Natural Tooth Structure

Porcelain inlays and onlays require less removal of natural tooth structure than harmful amalgam fillings and metal crowns alike. A metal crown requires more of the tooth’s surface to be removed for the crown to properly bond to the tooth. With porcelain and resin, their biocompatible materials allow us to bond the inlay or onlay to the tooth without removing much of the tooth.

Aesthetically Appealing

Porcelain inlays and onlays are both aesthetically appealing and match the color of your natural teeth. In addition, they offer a seamless finish and match the shape of your other teeth. The inlay or onlay is custom made using impressions of your teeth so it will fit perfectly in your mouth and look like your own tooth.

Highly Durable

Porcelain inlays and onlays are made from a robust and durable material that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. In addition, porcelain is strong and resists staining to keep its natural color for many years. Porcelain is also less likely to chip or break than other materials, making it suitable for dental restoration.

Improved Oral Hygiene

Porcelain inlays and onlays restore teeth and protect them from further damage and decay. They are easy to clean and improve oral hygiene. Leaving broken and decayed teeth are detrimental to your oral health. Restoring your teeth with an inlay or onlay can provide a durable option to keep your smile healthy for years to come!

How long do porcelain inlays/onlay last?

Porcelain is a solid and durable material, and with regular brushing and flossing, your inlay or onlay will last for many years to come. On average, porcelain restoration can last around twenty years before they need to be replaced.