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Inlays and Onlays

At Shodhan Dentistry, our mission is to always preserve a patient’s tooth. Our goal is to revitalize your teeth, both conservatively and effectively. One method our dentist uses to do this is Inlays and Onlays. So in cases where you’re tooth needs more than fillings but not a dental crown, Inlays and Onlays are a great option.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays & Onlays are partial crowns. The placement of the partial crown will determine the name of these restorations. When the porcelain pieces of the crown bond to the grooves (valleys) only, they’re called Inlays. Onlays are the opposite, they’re the partial crowns that solely bond to the cusps (peaks) of the tooth.
Woman having teeth examined at dentists

How Do Inlays and Onlays Look?

Many patients ask how do they look once put on their teeth. The best word to use is natural! Since these partial crowns come from color-matched porcelain, they provide a natural look. Our skilled dentists in Yucaipa will prep and bond your restoration in place. The inlays and onlays will naturally blend in with your surrounding teeth. Patients become amazed at how fantastic their smile becomes afterward.

Am I A Candidate?

Good candidates for Inlays and Onlays are unique. There are two requirements to qualify for treatment. First, your tooth needs more damage to it than what a traditional filling can help. Second, is your tooth doesn’t have enough damage to require a conventional crown.
Other essential factors help with eligibility. They are best suited on teeth with sufficient tooth structure. There needs to be enough tooth left to support the restoration. Also, another significant factor is oral hygiene. For best long term results, patients need to commit to healthy oral hygiene habits.

How Are They Applied?

The application of Inlays & Onlays is a multistep process. First, our Yucaipa dentist will prep your tooth. The prep entails removing any decay currently present on your tooth. If needed, any existing fillings will also be removed at this stage. After the prep, a tooth impression is made to ensure proper fit and bite. The impression is sent to the lab for fabrication. When the inlay or onlay is completed, the dentist will then cement it onto your tooth.

What Are The Benefits of Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and Onlays are popular for many reasons. The restorations provide many great benefits such as:
  • natural tooth look and function
  • more aesthetically appealing
  • can strengthen weak teeth
  • replaces old or damaged fillings
  • long durability can last decades
  • custom fits
  • less invasive compared to other restoration treatments
  • helps restore oral health

Are There Any Downsides?

As with any dental therapy, there are potential downsides and risks to consider. Some possible risks to take into consideration are:
  • possible allergies to the inlay or onlay
  • allergic reactions to the pain-numbing agents used during the procedure
  • developing tooth decay due to a damaged or lost sealant
  • injuries to the gum or mouth during treatment
Other downsides to the therapy include time and costs. First off, inlays and onlays tend to be more costly in comparison to fillings. This higher cost is because a dental lab is needed to custom make the restoration. Though the upside is that they last longer than standard fillings. The second downside is that the treatment will require a second visit. Despite all these risks and disadvantages, our office still highly recommends them.

Does Insurance Cover Inlays and Onlays?

The short answer is yes, dental insurances generally cover Inlays & Onlays. The exact coverage will depend on your insurance carrier and chosen coverage. Some insurances will classify them like traditional fillings. While others might classify the restorations as a significant procedure. So depending on the classification, you can expect insurances to cover anywhere from 50-80%.
To find out more, call Shodhan Dentistry today. You will be amazed at your improved cosmetic appearance and ease of this restoration. We’re confident that this procedure can help improve your smile and confidence. Call our dental office today to request an appointment. Get your beautiful smile in just two dental appointments.

How we make dental care better

Multilingual staff

Our team speaks multiple languages to make sure our patients feel comfortable.

Affordable care

We offer transparent pricing and accept most PPO dental plans, FSAs, and HSAs.

Easy financing

No insurance? No problem! We offer interest-free payment plans.

Convenient scheduling

We offer online booking and same-day availability to make sure you’re seen ASAP.
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My wife and I are new to Dr. Shodhan's office and she has told me this is the best dental office she has ever been to. Dr. Shodhan is very gentle and his staff is always in a happy, fun kind of mood. We felt very comfortable!
Rob Sanders
Dr Shodhan is the best! I highly recommend his expertise. Plus his prices are very fair. Don't go to Mexico!! He is truly the best. I've had root canals and crowns done by Dr. Shodhan. I couldn't be happier with his work. PLEASE go see Dr. Shodhan!!
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