Inlays & Onlays

Restore strength, protect enamel, and keep your smile natural-looking. At Loganville Family Dentistry, our dentists use precise, tooth-conserving techniques to repair moderate decay and fractures while preserving healthy structure. Many patients search for inlays and onlays in Loganville, GA, and we’re here with clear explanations, side-by-side options, and steps that fit your goals and timeline.

Why Precise, Tooth-Saving Repair Matters

When a cavity or crack is too large for a filling, but not severe enough for a full crown, custom restorations can save healthy structure and stabilize the bite. We evaluate risk factors like grinding, dietary acids, and existing restorations to choose the best path forward. With proper planning, an inlay or onlay blends strength with conservation. With the right plan, inlays and onlays treatment prioritizes long-term function while preserving as much natural tooth as possible for a balanced, comfortable bite.

From First Visit to Final Bond: What to Expect

After a focused exam and imaging, we map the cracks and margins to design a precise fit. The tooth is shaped conservatively, then a digital or physical impression captures detail for the lab. A smooth temporary protects the tooth between visits. At delivery, we verify contacts and bite, then bond the restoration under isolation for durability. You’ll go home with care tips and a nightguard recommendation if needed. This process supports a reliable tooth restoration result that looks natural and feels comfortable during daily chewing.

Comfort, Safety, and Materials That Last

Your comfort is built in, hand signals to pause anytime, thorough local anesthesia, and clear cues at each step. Isolation with a rubber dam keeps the site dry, improving bond strength. Material choices include ceramic inlays and onlays that resist wear and staining while matching natural translucency. We’ll discuss benefits, limitations, and maintenance so expectations are realistic. Most patients experience only mild, short-lived sensitivity that fades as the tooth settles. Regular hygiene visits and bite checks help protect the restoration over time.

Choosing an Onlay vs. Crown: Who Benefits

Onlays cover weakened cusps to prevent fractures without removing unnecessary enamel. They’re ideal when damage extends beyond a filling but a full crown would be excessive. Your dentist will review photos, bite analysis, and habits like clenching to guide the decision. If coverage is limited to one or more cusps, dental onlay restoration can provide strength and seal while preserving natural contours. When cracks are deep or the tooth is heavily restored, a full-coverage option may be the safer, longer-term choice.