Inlays & Onlays

Precision Inlays & Onlays to Restore Damaged Teeth Safely

When teeth are damaged by decay or wear, but not enough to require a full crown, dental inlays and onlays provide an excellent solution. At Serenity Family Dental of Burlington, we specialize in dental inlays and onlays in Burlington, MA, offering patients a conservative and long-lasting way to restore strength, function, and aesthetics to their teeth.

These restorations bridge the gap between traditional fillings and full crowns, giving you the best of both worlds: durability and a natural look.

What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair teeth that have moderate damage or decay. They are stronger and more durable than regular fillings but require less removal of natural tooth structure than crowns.

• Inlays fit within the grooves of the tooth, similar to a filling but crafted from stronger materials like porcelain.
• Onlays cover one or more cusps (the pointed parts of the tooth), providing additional protection and reinforcement.

When Are Teeth Inlays and Onlays Needed?

You may benefit from teeth inlays and onlays if you have:

• Large cavities that cannot be restored with standard fillings
• Fractured or weakened teeth needing extra support
• Old or failing fillings that require replacement
• Teeth with moderate damage that don’t need a full crown

By choosing dental inlays and onlays, patients can preserve more of their healthy tooth structure compared to crowns, while still achieving strength and stability.

Benefits of Dental Inlays and Onlays

Patients who choose dental inlays and onlays in Burlington, MA, enjoy several advantages:

• Durability: Made from strong materials like porcelain, inlays and onlays last longer than traditional fillings.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Porcelain inlays blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color.
• Strength: These restorations reinforce your tooth structure, preventing further damage.
• Conservation of Tooth Structure: Less drilling and reshaping compared to full crowns.
• Precision Fit: Each inlay and onlay is custom-designed to fit perfectly for comfort and function.

The Process of Getting Dental Inlays and Onlays

At Serenity Family Dental of Burlington, we follow a precise and patient-focused process for dental inlays and onlays.

1. Examination and Planning: Our dentist evaluates the damaged tooth and determines whether an inlay, onlay, or another treatment is best.
2. Tooth Preparation: The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed.
3. Impressions and Digital Scans: We take detailed images or impressions to create your custom restoration.
4. Temporary Filling: A temporary covering may be placed to protect your tooth while the permanent piece is made.
5. Final Placement: Once ready, your porcelain inlay or onlay is bonded securely, restoring your tooth’s natural function and appearance.

The process is efficient, comfortable, and results in a restoration that looks and feels completely natural.

Porcelain Inlays vs Other Materials

While inlays and onlays can be made from materials like gold or composite resin, porcelain inlays are the most popular choice for cosmetic and functional reasons. Porcelain offers:

• A lifelike, natural appearance
• Excellent stain resistance
• Long-lasting durability
• Biocompatibility for gum and tissue health

This makes porcelain the ideal material for patients seeking both aesthetics and longevity in their dental restorations.

Dental Inlays and Onlays vs Fillings and Crowns

It’s common for patients to wonder how dental inlays and onlays compare to other treatments:

• Fillings: Suitable for small cavities, but less durable for large areas.
• Inlays and Onlays: Ideal for moderate damage, offering a stronger, more precise fit.
• Crowns: Necessary when a tooth is severely weakened or damaged.

At Serenity Family Dental of Burlington, we recommend the most conservative option that still provides long-lasting results, often making teeth inlays and onlays the best middle-ground solution.

Caring for Your Dental Inlays and Onlays

Maintaining your dental inlays and onlays is straightforward:

• Brush and floss daily, just as you would with natural teeth.
• Visit Serenity Family Dental of Burlington for regular checkups and cleanings.
• Avoid chewing excessively hard foods (like ice) to protect your restoration.

With proper care, porcelain inlays and onlays can last for many years, keeping your smile strong and healthy.

Why Choose Serenity Family Dental of Burlington?

At Serenity Family Dental of Burlington, we combine advanced technology with a personalized approach to care. Our focus is on preserving your natural tooth structure while providing restorations that are functional, durable, and beautiful.

Schedule a Consultation for Dental Inlays and Onlays in Burlington, MA

If you’re looking for a durable and natural-looking solution for tooth restoration, consider dental inlays and onlays in Burlington, MA. Contact Serenity Family Dental of Burlington today to schedule your consultation. Our experienced team will assess your needs, explain your treatment options, and design a plan that restores both strength and beauty to your smile.