Cosmetic Care
Inlays and Onlays in Calgary NE
When a tooth has too much damage for a filling but not enough to need a full crown, there is a middle ground. Cornerbrook Smiles Dental offers inlays and onlays, a durable, precisely fitted restoration for teeth that need more support than a filling can provide, with appointments available seven days a week from 8am to 8pm. We serve patients across Cornerstone, Cityscape, Redstone, and Skyview Ranch in northeast Calgary.
Part of Cosmetic Care
Open 7 days a week
Overview
Inlays and onlays are custom made restorations designed to repair a tooth when the damage is too extensive for a standard filling but not severe enough to require a full crown. Made from durable materials and fabricated to fit your tooth precisely, they restore strength and function while preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.
What Are Inlays and Onlays
Both inlays and onlays are custom fabricated restorations, typically made from a durable material such as composite resin or ceramic, designed to fit the specific shape of the damaged area of your tooth. Unlike a filling, which is shaped directly in the mouth during your appointment, an inlay or onlay is fabricated to fit your tooth precisely and then bonded into place, offering a stronger, longer lasting result for larger areas of damage.
Inlays vs Onlays
The difference between an inlay and an onlay comes down to how much of the tooth is being restored. An inlay fits within the grooves on the biting surface of the tooth, between the cusps, or raised points. An onlay covers a larger area, including one or more of the cusps themselves, when the damage extends further across the tooth's surface. Your dentist will determine which option is appropriate based on the extent of damage present.
When Inlays and Onlays Are Recommended
- A cavity too large for a standard filling but not extensive enough for a crown
- A tooth with a fractured cusp that needs additional support
- Replacement of an old, failing filling that has become too large for a new filling to properly support
- A need for a more durable, longer lasting restoration than a filling can provide
What Is Included
- An exam and impression or digital scan of the damaged tooth
- Fabrication of a custom inlay or onlay to fit your specific tooth
- Careful bonding and fitting to ensure a comfortable, precise bite
- A final check to confirm fit and function before you leave
Why Patients Choose Us for This
- A stronger, longer lasting option than a large filling
- Preserves more natural tooth structure compared to a full crown
- Custom fabricated for a precise, comfortable fit
- Open seven days a week from 8am to 8pm
- Direct billing to most major insurance providers
What to Expect at Your Visit
- 1
We listen first.Tell us about your symptoms and concerns, and we will assess the extent of damage to determine if an inlay or onlay is the right fit.
- 2
We explain your options.You will get an honest assessment comparing a filling, inlay, onlay, or crown for your specific tooth, along with a transparent estimate before any work starts.
- 3
We treat you with care.The process typically involves preparing the tooth, taking an impression or scan, and fitting your custom restoration once it is ready, sometimes over two visits depending on how it is fabricated.
Caring for Your Inlay or Onlay
Inlays and onlays do not require special products beyond your normal oral hygiene routine. Continuing regular brushing and flossing, avoiding biting down on very hard foods or objects, and keeping up with routine dental checkups all help your restoration last as long as possible. Your dentist will monitor the fit and condition of your inlay or onlay at your regular visits to catch any issues early.
Cost of Inlays and Onlays
The cost of an inlay or onlay depends on the material used and the extent of the tooth being restored, since onlays generally involve more coverage than inlays. Call us at (403) 300-4444 for a personalized quote, and ask about direct billing if you have dental insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dental inlay or onlay?
An inlay or onlay is a custom fabricated restoration used to repair a tooth when the damage is too extensive for a standard filling but not severe enough to require a full crown. An inlay fits within the tooth's grooves, while an onlay covers a larger area including one or more cusps.
How much are inlays and onlays?
Cost depends on the material used and how much of the tooth needs to be restored. Call us at (403) 300-4444 for a personalized quote after an exam.
Do inlays and onlays require more than one visit?
This can vary depending on how the restoration is fabricated. Some cases are completed in a single visit, while others require a second appointment to fit the finished restoration.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With proper care, inlays and onlays are durable and can last many years, often comparable to or longer than a large filling, depending on the material used and how well the tooth is cared for.
Is an inlay or onlay better than a filling?
For smaller cavities, a standard filling is usually sufficient. For larger areas of damage, an inlay or onlay generally offers a stronger, more durable result than a large filling can provide, while preserving more tooth structure than a full crown.
Book Your Inlays and Onlays Consultation
Get a stronger, longer lasting restoration for a damaged tooth. Book your inlays and onlays consultation with Cornerbrook Smiles Dental today.
Have a question first? Contact us and we will get back to you.