Dental Inlays and Onlays in Farmington, UT

A type of restoration often considered somewhere between a filling and crown, a dental inlay or onlay can repair a tooth damaged by decay or trauma. Used on the molars and pre-molars, a dental inlay is fit into the concave middle portion of a tooth; meanwhile, onlays cover the rounded upper edges of a tooth. Like fillings and crowns, inlays and onlays can be made using a variety of materials, including composite resin, ceramic, porcelain, metal, or CEREC technology. Board-certified dentist Dr. Brian Call is always more than happy to help his Farmington, UT patients understand the subtle differences between fillings, crowns, inlays, and onlays and help them make the best decision for their dental health. Oakridge Dental is pleased to offer inlays and onlays along with a number of other effective restorative options.

An inlay or onlay can be a great option if you have a chipped tooth or a large cavity that's too large for a filling but not quite big enough to justify a full-coverage crown. During your examination, Dr. Call will use your digital x-rays to determine the best solution for your dental issue. If an inlay or onlay is chosen, he will explain the available materials that will best meet your requirements. Typically, Dr. Call crafts inlays or onlays utilizing our in-office CEREC restoration system, or they are molded using tooth-colored composite resin.

After applying a numbing cream or local anesthesia to your gums, Dr. Call will begin by removing areas of decay. Other techniques of sedation can be used if you have anxiety or a powerful gag reflex. When the tooth is cleaned, impressions will be produced of your tooth. If you are receiving an indirect restoration, a temporary cover will be placed until it is prepared. As soon as your restoration is ready, Dr. Call will carefully place the material and bond it onto your tooth. He will then polish the borders and adjust the fit so your tooth is properly coated and feels comfortable.

If only local anesthesia was used, you can leave after your procedure and return to your normal day. You might experience some discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity for a few days after your onlay or inlay is placed. Please contact Oakridge Dental if you experience any concerns following your treatment. Inlays and onlays can be cleaned just like your natural teeth by flossing and brushing daily. You should continue to attend your annual dental examinations and twice-yearly cleanings at Oakridge Dental so Dr. Call can evaluate the function and wear of the onlay or inlay. With good care, this type of restoration can last for several years before repairs or replacements are needed.

Tooth decay is a common but persistent issue that only worsens over time if left untreated. At Oakridge Dental, family dentist Dr. Brian Call uses advanced, medical-grade materials to craft restorations for each of his patients. Inlays and onlays can be a great option for individuals who require something larger than a filling but not full coverage. Contact our office in Farmington, UT to schedule your yearly dental exam or biannual cleaning and stay on top of your dental wellness.