Our Cameron Park dentist office understands the need to be informed on all treatments we propose and the differences between inlays and onlays. We strive to answer all your questions and keep our dental fees within your budget. We offer an x-ray, exam and cleaning special along with other discounts.

Inlays and Onlays are lab-made restorations that are placed on teeth, instead of a filling, when the cavity or lost tooth structure is too large to be restored by a simple filling. The process of making an inlay is very similar to a crown. After the tooth is prepared, it is cemented or bonded to the tooth. The bonding improves the strength of the tooth along with sealing the inlay.

Onlays are similar fitting inside the tooth, but also connect to a chewing surface on a back tooth, replacing one or more cusps. They are bonded the same way inlays are.

There are different materials that inlays are made of, including gold, porcelain, ceramic, and composite resins. Porcelain and composite inlays and onlays are cosmetic alternatives to fillings and are very strong compared to regular white fillings. Gold inlays and onlays are also suitable alternatives, but their appearance makes them less popular.

We will explain when an inlay or onlay is a viable treatment option for you. In general, inlays and onlays can replace most back teeth fillings and are sometimes cosmetically preferred over conventional fillings. At the same time, they are more conservative than crowns.

As far as cost is concerned, because the process of making an inlay or onlay is similar to a crown, its cost is also comparable. But when considering the longevity of inlays and onlays, they can end up costing less than traditional fillings.

If you have any questions about dental inlays and onlays and you live in or around Cameron Park, give us a call today! We’re located in the Safeway Shopping Center off highway 50.