Inlays & Onlays in Fort Collins, CO

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations used to repair decayed, cracked, or worn teeth—especially in the back of the mouth where chewing forces are strongest. They are crafted from durable materials like porcelain or ceramic and bonded directly to the tooth structure.

• Inlays fit within the grooves of the tooth, similar to a large filling but without covering the cusps.
• Onlays cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps and can restore a larger portion of the chewing surface.

These restorations offer a middle ground between a dental filling and a dental crown, making them ideal when conservative treatment is preferred.

When Are Inlays or Onlays Recommended?

Our team may recommend an inlay or onlay if:

• A tooth has too much decay for a filling to be stable
• An existing filling has failed or cracked
• You want a longer-lasting, more aesthetic alternative to a metal filling
• The tooth needs reinforcement but still has enough healthy structure to avoid a full crown

Both options are tooth-colored and custom-designed for a seamless, natural fit.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Treatment with inlays or onlays typically involves two visits:

1. Initial Appointment
   The damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is removed and the area is prepared for restoration. We then take digital impressions using advanced intraoral scanning technology to create a precise 3D model of your tooth. A temporary filling may be placed while your restoration is crafted.
2. Final Placement
   Once your custom inlay or onlay is ready, we carefully bond it to your tooth using a strong adhesive. We check your bite, make any needed adjustments, and polish the restoration for a smooth finish.

Throughout your treatment, you’ll be under the care of Dr. Veronica Ray, who ensures that each restoration is functional, durable, and beautifully crafted to match your natural teeth.

Advantages of Inlays & Onlays

• Conservative treatment – Preserves more natural tooth than a crown
• Strong and long-lasting – More durable than traditional fillings
• Custom fit – Designed specifically for your tooth’s anatomy
• Stain-resistant and natural-looking – Especially when crafted from porcelain or ceramic
• Protective – Helps prevent future fractures or further decay

Inlays and onlays are often part of a broader restorative dentistry plan and may also be used to enhance overall tooth aesthetics when paired with smile makeover treatments.