Inlays & Onlays in Clearwater, FL
Conservative Restorations for Strength, Function, and Longevity
When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but not quite in need of a full crown, inlays and onlays offer a strong, conservative solution. At Prime Dental Care in Clearwater, we provide custom inlays and onlays made from durable, tooth-colored materials that restore your tooth’s strength and appearance without excessive removal of healthy enamel.
Designed to last longer than standard fillings while preserving more of the natural tooth than a crown, inlays and onlays are an ideal middle ground in modern restorative dentistry.
Why Choose Prime Dental Care for Inlays & Onlays?
- Precise digital imaging and impressions for accurate fit
- Durable materials like porcelain or ceramic for long-lasting results
- Conservative approach that maintains more of your natural tooth
- Seamless integration with existing tooth color and shape
- Expert restorative and cosmetic care from Dr. Nan Zhong
These restorations are often part of broader treatments such as full mouth reconstruction, or used to upgrade large tooth-colored fillings for added longevity and strength.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations crafted in a dental lab and bonded to the tooth:
- Inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth (between the cusps), similar to a large filling.
- Onlays cover one or more cusps (the raised points of a tooth) and may extend over the chewing surface.
Both are fabricated from high-strength ceramic or porcelain materials that match your natural tooth color and are bonded securely for a lasting fit.
When Are Inlays or Onlays Recommended?
We may recommend an inlay or onlay when:
- A cavity is too large for a filling but doesn’t require a full crown
- An old filling is failing and needs replacement
- A tooth is cracked or weakened but mostly intact
- You want a longer-lasting, more durable alternative to a composite filling
Compared to full dental crowns, these restorations preserve more healthy enamel while still offering significant reinforcement.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Evaluation and Imaging:
Dr. Zhong will assess your tooth, take digital impressions, and determine whether an inlay or onlay is the best choice. - Tooth Preparation:
The decayed or damaged area is removed, and the tooth is shaped to receive the restoration. - Temporary Protection:
A temporary filling or cover is placed while your custom inlay or onlay is crafted in a dental lab. - Final Placement:
At your second visit, the restoration is bonded to the tooth, adjusted for bite accuracy, and polished for a natural finish.
Benefits of Inlays & Onlays
- Preserve more natural tooth structure than a crown
- Strengthen and protect weakened teeth
- Made from durable, aesthetic materials
- Resist wear and staining
- Long-lasting with proper care
They can also be used as part of a cosmetic upgrade, especially in back teeth that show when smiling or laughing. For patients who grind their teeth, we may also recommend a nightguard to protect the restoration.
FAQs About Inlays and Onlays
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With good care, they can last 10–20 years or more. Their durability makes them an excellent long-term solution.
What’s the difference between a filling, inlay, and crown?
Fillings are molded in the mouth and ideal for small repairs. Inlays and onlays are lab-made and used when more structure needs to be replaced. Crowns cover the entire tooth.
Do inlays and onlays look natural?
Yes. We match the material to your tooth color and shape for a seamless, natural appearance.
Is the procedure painful?
No. Local anesthesia is used during preparation, and most patients experience minimal post-appointment discomfort.
Are these restorations covered by insurance?
Many PPO plans partially cover inlays and onlays when medically necessary. For uncovered costs, we offer CareCredit and Sunbit financing, along with our Prime Smile Club for added savings.
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Schedule a Consultation for Inlays or Onlays in Clearwater
If you're looking for a strong, natural-looking solution to restore a damaged tooth without a full crown, inlays and onlays may be the right option. At Prime Dental Care, Dr. Nan Zhong delivers precise, conservative restorative care with long-term results. We welcome patients from Clearwater, Safety Harbor, Palm Harbor, Largo, Dunedin, Belleair, and Tampa.