Inlays & Onlays in Jenkintown, PA

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are lab-made restorations used to repair moderately damaged or decayed teeth—especially molars and premolars.

• Inlays fit within the grooves of the tooth, between the cusps (the pointed parts).
  
• Onlays cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps and may extend over the edge of the tooth, making them a more extensive solution than inlays.
  

Both are made from tooth-colored materials like porcelain or composite resin and are bonded to the tooth for a strong, seamless fit.

When Are Inlays and Onlays Recommended?

Our dentists may recommend an inlay or onlay if:

• The tooth has too much damage for a filling but not enough for a full Dental Crown
  
• You have a cracked or fractured tooth not involving the root
  
• An old filling needs to be replaced with something stronger
  
• You want a mercury-free alternative to metal fillings
  

These restorations are a conservative option that helps retain more of your natural tooth compared to crowns.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

• Stronger than fillings, ideal for chewing surfaces
  
• More conservative than crowns, preserving more natural tooth structure
  
• Durable and long-lasting, often 10–15 years with good care
  
• Custom color-matched to blend with your natural tooth
  
• Stain-resistant and precisely fitted for a tight seal
  

They’re a great choice for patients who want high-quality, minimally invasive treatment that looks and feels like their natural teeth.

Our Inlay & Onlay Process

1. Examination & Imaging
   We assess the damage and take precise digital impressions of the tooth.
   
2. Tooth Preparation
   The affected area is cleaned and shaped, and a temporary filling may be placed while the lab creates your inlay or onlay.
   
3. Custom Restoration Placement
   Once your custom piece is ready, we bond it to your tooth and polish it to perfection.
   
4. Follow-Up & Maintenance
   We’ll check the restoration at every routine visit and ensure it continues to function properly.
   

Inlays and onlays are often used alongside our other Restorative Dentistry services and are supported by ongoing Preventive Dentistry to maintain long-term oral health.