Exceptional Care Tailored to Your Needs

Conveniently located in Riverside, CA, our practice proudly supports patients throughout the Inland Empire, Los Angeles, and Orange County areas. With advanced dental technology and personalized treatment plans, we’re here to restore the function and beauty of your smile. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward healthier, stronger teeth!

What Are Dental Inlays & Onlays?

Dental inlays and onlays are restorative treatments used to repair teeth with cavities or structural damage that cannot be effectively treated with a traditional filling. Made from durable materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold, inlays and onlays are custom-crafted to fit perfectly into or over your tooth.

• Inlays: These are used to restore the chewing surface of your tooth and fit snugly within the grooves, without covering the cusps (outer edges).
• Onlays: Sometimes called "partial crowns," onlays extend beyond the grooves and cover one or more cusps of your tooth for added reinforcement.

Both options are designed to preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible while restoring its strength, functionality, and appearance.

Benefits of Dental Inlays & Onlays

Choosing inlays or onlays over other restorative options provides several benefits:

• Natural Appearance: When made from tooth-colored materials like porcelain or resin, inlays and onlays blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
• Durability: These restorations are highly resistant to wear and can last 10–15 years or longer with proper care.
• Minimally Invasive: Inlays and onlays preserve more of your natural tooth structure compared to full crowns.
• Strength and Support: Onlays can strengthen a damaged tooth by protecting the cusps, while inlays restore the chewing surface for better functionality.
• Stain Resistance: Porcelain inlays and onlays are resistant to staining, helping your smile stay bright.

When Are Inlays & Onlays Needed?

Inlays and onlays are typically recommended for patients with:

• Moderate tooth decay or damage that cannot be repaired with a filling
• Cracked or fractured teeth that require additional support
• Worn or broken fillings that need replacement
• Teeth that are not strong enough to support a filling but do not require a full crown

During your consultation, our team will evaluate your teeth to determine if inlays or onlays are the best solution for your needs.

The Dental Inlay & Onlay Process

Restoring your smile with inlays or onlays is a straightforward and comfortable process at Parkside Dental:

1. Initial Consultation

We’ll begin with a thorough examination of your teeth, using digital imaging to assess the extent of damage or decay. If inlays or onlays are the best option, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan.

2. Tooth Preparation

The damaged portion of your tooth will be carefully removed, and the area will be cleaned and shaped to accommodate the inlay or onlay.

3. Digital Scans

Using advanced scanning technology, we’ll take precise digital scans of your tooth. These digital scans are sent to our in-house milling machine or a trusted dental lab to craft your custom restoration.

4. Temporary Restoration

If necessary, a temporary inlay or onlay will be placed to protect your tooth while the final restoration is being fabricated.

5. Placement of the Inlay or Onlay

Once your custom inlay or onlay is ready, it will be securely bonded to your tooth using a strong dental adhesive. We’ll ensure the fit is perfect and polish the restoration for a natural look and smooth feel.

Caring for Your Inlays & Onlays

To ensure the longevity of your inlays or onlays, follow these simple care tips:

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to prevent plaque buildup around the restoration.
• Avoid biting into hard objects like ice or pens to prevent damage.
• Visit us regularly for cleanings and checkups to monitor the health of your restoration and surrounding teeth.

With proper care, your inlays or onlays can provide long-lasting protection and functionality.