If your tooth has been damaged by decay or injury but does not require a full dental crown, you may be a candidate for an inlay or onlay. These custom restorations are used to repair moderate damage to the chewing surface of a back tooth, providing durability and a natural appearance without removing excess tooth structure. Dental inlays and onlays in Burnsville, Minnesota, are made from strong materials such as porcelain, composite resin or gold, and they are crafted to fit precisely within or over your tooth. Once bonded into place, they blend seamlessly into your smile and restore full function.
Inlays vs. Onlays: What is the Difference?
Although dental inlays and onlays serve similar purposes, they are used in slightly different situations. Inlays are used when damage is contained within the grooves of the tooth and does not involve the cusps. An onlay, sometimes referred to as a partial crown, is used when the damage includes one or more of the tooth’s cusps. In both cases, the goal is to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible while reinforcing the integrity of your tooth.
Our dentists will evaluate your needs and recommend the appropriate restoration. Using detailed dental impressions and advanced design tools, we ensure your inlay or onlay is fabricated with exact specifications for a precise fit and long-term success. Depending on your situation, we may even be able to provide your inlay or onlay in a single visit!
Benefits of Choosing Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer several advantages over traditional fillings and crowns. Because they are fabricated outside the mouth and then bonded into place, they are stronger and more durable than direct fillings. They also provide a conservative alternative to crowns, allowing more of your healthy tooth to remain intact. With proper care, inlays and onlays can last for many years, resisting wear and helping to protect your tooth from further decay or damage.
Many patients also appreciate the aesthetic benefits of porcelain and tooth-colored materials. These restorations are highly stain resistant and designed to match the color of your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible once placed.
Schedule Your Restoration Consultation
If you are experiencing discomfort, have an old filling that needs replacement or want to strengthen a weakened tooth, we invite you to call Twin Cities Modern Dentistry at 952-435-4177 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Mike Henrickson or Dr. Laureen Ballinger to discuss dental inlays and onlays in Burnsville, MN. Our team is committed to providing restorative options that protect your oral health and enhance your smile. We will help you determine whether a dental inlay or onlay is the best solution for your needs and ensure your care is personalized and comfortable from start to finish.