Porcelain Inlays and Onlays in Montclair, CA

Dental inlays and onlays are dental restorations designed to support teeth affected by decay, cracks, or enamel fractures. While they may resemble fillings and crowns, there are distinct differences that make them an excellent choice for cosmetic dental treatment.

Understanding Porcelain Inlays and Onlays

Porcelain inlays and onlays are two separate restorations, each serving a unique purpose:

Porcelain Inlays

Inlays closely resemble dental fillings, making them an excellent choice for patients who require more than a simple filling to restore lost tooth structure after decay removal. Once the decay is eliminated, our dentist takes an impression of the prepared tooth and crafts a customized porcelain filling known as an inlay.

Porcelain Onlays

Dental onlays share similarities with dental crowns but are shorter, covering only the tooth's cusps. They are ideal for patients with minor enamel fractures or superficial cracks, preserving healthy tooth structure while providing support to the damaged area and seamlessly blending with the natural appearance of your smile.

When Are Dental Inlays and Onlays Recommended?

Our Montclair cosmetic dentist may recommend a porcelain inlay or onlay when you:

Seek a long-lasting solution
Desire a custom shade match
Aim to conserve tooth structure
Do not have deep cracks
Experience recurrent decay under a filling
Suffer from a small-to-medium cusp fracture

The Dental Inlay or Onlay Procedure

Here's what to expect during a dental inlay or onlay procedure:

Numbing: We will ensure your comfort by numbing the tooth.
Decay Removal: Any detected decay is removed, preparing the tooth for restoration. The margins are smoothed to ensure a precise fit.
Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth is taken to create a custom porcelain restoration.
Bonding: Once the fabrication is complete, we bond the porcelain inlay or onlay to your tooth.

Typical Lifespan of Dental Inlays and Onlays

On average, porcelain inlays and onlays from our Montclair cosmetic dentist can last between 20-30 years. To put this into perspective, composite fillings last five to 10 years, while porcelain crowns endure for five to 15 years. The longevity of a restoration depends on diligent home care. Patients with excellent oral hygiene practices may even extend the lifespan of their restorations beyond the average.

What is the Cost of Dental Inlays and Onlays?

The cost of porcelain inlays and onlays typically starts around $700 per tooth, influenced by the restoration's size and the material used (porcelain).

Dental Insurance Coverage for Dental Inlays and Onlays

While many insurance companies may not cover inlays and onlays, some do. Our team is available to discuss your insurance coverage, provide accurate cost estimates, and explain payment and outside financing options.

Experience the Benefits of Porcelain Inlays and Onlays in Montclair

If you're ready to enhance your smile's appearance, reach out to our team to learn more about porcelain inlays and onlays. These long-lasting cosmetic solutions not only strengthen your teeth but also improve the appearance of your back teeth. For many patients, they represent the ideal solution for addressing decay and enamel fractures.

Custom Dental Inlays and Onlays at Dentist of Montclair

To explore whether a dental inlay or onlay is the best treatment option for your needs, contact Dentist of Montclair at (909) 321-9680. Our team is here to assist you in achieving your dental goals.