818-906-1122     |     Address: 14652 Ventura Blvd #200, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403     |     Mon-Fri 9 AM-6 PM, Sat: 8 AM-3 PM

Inlays and Onlays in Sherman Oaks

When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but doesn’t require a full crown, inlays and onlays provide the ideal middle-ground solution. At our Sherman Oaks dental practice, we offer these custom restorations to rebuild teeth with strength, precision, and a natural look. Our advanced approach preserves as much healthy tooth structure as possible while delivering durable, long-lasting results.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations designed to repair moderate damage or decay.

  • Inlays fit within the grooves and cusps of your tooth.
  • Onlays extend over one or more cusps of the tooth, covering a wider area.

They are usually fabricated from strong, lifelike materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold. These restorations are color-matched and shaped precisely to blend with your natural teeth, restoring both appearance and function.

Who Should Consider Inlays or Onlays?

Inlays and onlays might be right for you if:

  • You have a large cavity that’s too big for a standard filling
  • A tooth has chipped or cracked, but still has a good overall structure
  • An old filling has broken or is failing
  • Your teeth have worn down from grinding or acid erosion

In these situations, inlays and onlays can strengthen your tooth while preserving more of its natural material than a crown would.

Benefits of Inlays & Onlays

Patients in Sherman Oaks appreciate inlays and onlays for many reasons:

Tooth Conservation
Less drilling than crowns, so you keep more of your natural tooth
Stain Resistance
These restorations stay bright and attractive over time
Strength & Longevity
They’re more durable than traditional fillings and resist cracking or wear
Natural Look
Ceramic and porcelain inlays/onlays match your natural tooth color beautifully

What to Expect During Treatment

Your inlay or onlay treatment generally takes two visits:

Visit 1: Preparation & Impression
We’ll start by numbing the area, removing any decay, and preparing the tooth. After shaping it, we take a detailed impression so that your custom restoration can be made. You’ll leave with a temporary inlay or onlay to protect your tooth.

Visit 2:  Placement & Finishing
At your follow-up appointment, we’ll remove the temporary and place your permanent inlay or onlay, bonding it securely and checking your bite for comfort. Finally, we polish it so it blends seamlessly with your other teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do inlays and onlays differ from crowns?
Inlays and onlays cover only part of your tooth, while a crown covers the entire tooth. They are a conservative alternative when full coverage isn’t required.
Will I be able to eat normally after treatment?
Yes. Once the numbing wears off and you feel comfortable, you can return to your normal diet.
Why choose inlays/onlays over a filling?
They are much more durable for repairing larger areas of decay and provide a precise fit that supports long-term tooth health.
What material is best?
Porcelain is a popular choice thanks to its natural look, strength, and stain resistance, making it ideal for visible areas of your smile.
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