Inlays & Onlays in Tustin, CA
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth that doesn’t require a full crown, inlays and onlays offer a conservative and highly effective solution. These custom restorations fit precisely into the prepared area of your tooth, restoring function and appearance while preserving as much of the natural tooth as possible. At our Tustin dental office, we craft inlays and onlays using durable materials that mimic the look and feel of real enamel. They’re ideal for patients who want strength and aesthetics without excessive drilling or reshaping.
How Does Inlays & Onlays Process Work?
Preparing for Your Inlays & Onlays Treatment
Preparation involves a comfortable and straightforward dental visit. We numb the area, remove any decay or compromised enamel, and shape the tooth for a precise fit. Digital scans are taken to ensure accurate modeling, and a temporary filling may be placed while your inlay or onlay is crafted in a lab. At your second visit, we bond the final restoration securely, check your bite, and polish the surface for a natural finish.
Ideal for Moderate Tooth Damage
Seamless, Natural Appearance
Crafted from ceramic or composite resin, these restorations are color-matched to your teeth, offering a subtle and natural look.
Long-Term Durability
Inlays and onlays are highly resistant to wear and provide excellent strength, especially for chewing surfaces of back teeth.
What to Expect During Your Inlays & Onlays Journey
During your first appointment, our team will assess your tooth, remove any decay, and take digital impressions to design your custom inlay or onlay. You’ll receive a temporary restoration to protect the area until the final piece is ready.
At your follow-up visit, we’ll bond the custom inlay or onlay to your tooth, make necessary bite adjustments, and ensure your comfort. With proper care, your restoration can last for many years, maintaining both strength and beauty.
Advantages of Choosing Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays preserve more natural tooth structure compared to traditional crowns. They’re a minimally invasive solution that strengthens teeth while improving aesthetics. Because they are bonded to the tooth, they help reinforce weak areas and protect against future damage. At Smyl OC Dentistry, we use modern technology and gentle care to deliver precise, comfortable restorations that last.
Minimally Invasive Restoration
These treatments conserve more of your natural tooth than full crowns, promoting long-term tooth health and stability.
Enhanced Bite Strength
Inlays and onlays restore full chewing function, especially helpful for molars and premolars with moderate damage.
Better Fit Than Fillings
Other Dental Services in Tustin, CA
Smyl OC dentistry provides a full range of services tailored to your smile. Whether you need preventive care, restorative work, or cosmetic enhancements, we’re here to ensure your comfort and results.
Emergency Dentistry
Immediate care for toothaches, injuries, or sudden dental issues to relieve pain and protect your oral health.
Periodontal Therapy
Targeted treatments to manage gum disease and maintain strong, healthy gums over the long term.
Retainers
Custom-made retainers help maintain your smile after orthodontic treatment and ensure alignment lasts.
Pediatric Dental Exams
Gentle exams for children to monitor development, catch concerns early, and promote lifelong oral health.
OUR PROMISE
Strong Restorations That Fit Like Nature Designed Them
At Smyl OC Dentistry, we believe that restorative work should be as natural and seamless as possible. With inlays and onlays, we bring your tooth back to its ideal shape without compromising structure or appearance. You’ll leave our office with a restoration that feels like your own.
We take pride in using the latest imaging and fabrication techniques to ensure a perfect fit. Your comfort is always our priority from the moment you sit in the chair to the final polish. Everything we do is designed to be efficient, gentle, and tailored to you.
Our promise is to deliver care that protects your teeth, supports your smile, and respects your time. Because restoring your smile isn’t just about the procedure it’s about helping you feel confident every time you bite, chew, and smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations used to repair moderate tooth damage. An inlay fits within the grooves of a tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps. Both options preserve more natural tooth structure compared to a full dental crown and provide strong, long lasting protection.
When are inlays or onlays recommended?
Inlays and onlays in Tustin are recommended when a tooth has too much damage for a standard dental filling but does not require a full crown. They are ideal for moderate decay, fractures, or replacing large failing fillings while maintaining the strength of the remaining tooth.
Are inlays and onlays better than traditional fillings?
Inlays and onlays are typically stronger and more durable than traditional composite fillings for larger areas of damage. Because they are custom fabricated in a lab, they offer precise fit, improved longevity, and better resistance to wear compared to standard fillings.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental exams in Tustin, inlays and onlays can last 10 to 20 years or more. Their durability depends on factors such as bite pressure, oral habits, and routine professional maintenance.
Is the inlay and onlay procedure painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during treatment. After placement, mild sensitivity may occur temporarily, but it usually resolves quickly as the tooth adapts to the restoration.