Inlays and Onlays

Minor tooth damage is common, but you don’t have to live with unsightly imperfections or worsening pain as a result. At Drs. Boyd P.C. in the Midtown East neighborhood of Manhattan in New York City, family owned and operated restorative and implant dentists use inlays and onlays to restore and protect imperfect teeth. Schedule a dental evaluation by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today. 

What are inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays are similar to fillings. Inlays fit inside the top surface of a tooth to repair and strengthen it. Onlays are larger. They also fit inside the tooth but extend onto the chewing surface, covering one or more tooth cusps. 

Drs. Boyd P.C. offers tooth-colored porcelain inlays and onlays as well as hand-made gold restorations.

What are the benefits of inlays and onlays?

Inlays and onlays at Drs. Boyd P.C. restore damaged or decaying teeth, reducing the risk of worsening dental problems. These restorations can treat:

• Chips
• Cracks
• Fractures 
• Large cavities
• Mild tooth damage
• Misshapen teeth
• Discoloration
• Decay

Inlays and onlays blend in perfectly with your natural teeth so that you can avoid unsightly or noticeable restorations. They are strong, durable, and last much longer than conventional fillings.

Am I a candidate for inlays and onlays?

The Drs. Boyd P.C. team determines if inlays, onlays, or both of these treatments are right for you after discussing your oral health history, examining your mouth, and completing dental X-rays if needed. 

They personalized a restorative dental solution that offers exceptional results. Minor tooth damage may simply need a small filling. More extreme damage could require bonding or a dental veneer, crown, bridge, or even tooth extraction with a dental implant in some cases.

What happens when receiving inlays and onlays?

Drs. Boyd P.C. takes digital impressions to develop inlays and onlays that fit into or onto your natural tooth perfectly. Your dentist numbs the treatment area, offers you a sedative, removes any bacteria or decay from the affected tooth, and prepares it to receive an inlay or onlay. 

They then bond the restoration to your tooth using specialized dental equipment and polish and smooth the treated tooth.

What should I expect after the procedure?

There’s no downtime after receiving inlays and onlays, though the treatment area may be slightly sensitive for a day or so. 

Take good care of your newly restored tooth by brushing your teeth after meals, flossing daily, not chewing on hard objects, and seeing your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and exams. Contact Drs. Boyd P.C. immediately if your inlay or onlay gets damaged or becomes loose. 

Schedule an evaluation at Drs. Boyd P.C. by phone or request one online today to learn more about inlays and onlays and determine if they’re right for you.