Custom Restorations That Strengthen and Preserve Your Natural Teeth
When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but doesn’t require a full crown, inlays and onlays offer an ideal solution. These restorations reinforce weakened teeth, repair decay, and restore natural contours—all while preserving healthy enamel.
At Whiteman Dental Associates in Boston, every inlay and onlay is crafted with accuracy and care. Designed to match the color and shape of your tooth, these restorations restore strength and stability while maintaining the natural look of your smile.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations used to repair moderate tooth damage. They fit precisely into or over a tooth’s surface to replace decayed or weakened areas while maintaining natural function and appearance.
- Inlays fit within the tooth’s biting surface between the raised edges, or cusps.
- Onlays extend over one or more cusps to provide additional protection and reinforcement.
These restorations are often referred to as “partial crowns” because they combine the strength of a crown with the conservativeness of a filling. Each one is fabricated to fit perfectly and bond securely to the tooth, creating a durable and lifelike result.
At Whiteman Dental Associates, we take pride in designing inlays and onlays that integrate seamlessly into your bite and blend naturally with surrounding enamel.
When Inlays or Onlays Are Recommended
Inlays and onlays are ideal for restoring teeth that have sustained damage beyond what a traditional filling can support, but that still retain enough structure to avoid a crown. Common indications include:
- Moderate tooth decay that affects a large area but doesn’t compromise the entire tooth
- Fractures or chips that weaken a tooth’s surface
- Replacement of large or aging fillings that have cracked or loosened
- Damage caused by grinding or clenching that has altered tooth shape
Choosing an inlay or onlay helps preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible while reinforcing it for years of reliable function.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer a balance of strength, beauty, and conservation that makes them a preferred choice for both patients and dentists.
1. Reinforced Strength
Bonded directly to the tooth, inlays and onlays restore structural integrity and resist wear from daily chewing.
2. Precise Fit
Each restoration is digitally designed for a perfect seal, preventing bacteria from reentering and helping the tooth stay healthy.
3. Conservative Treatment
Unlike crowns, which require significant reshaping, inlays and onlays remove only the damaged areas, preserving your healthy enamel.
4. Natural Appearance
Porcelain and composite options are color-matched to your teeth for a restoration that looks completely natural.
5. Long-Lasting Performance
With good care, inlays and onlays can last for decades, offering a durable and cost-effective investment in your smile.
At Whiteman Dental Associates, every restoration is designed to protect your tooth while maintaining a natural, balanced appearance.
The Inlay and Onlay Process at Whiteman Dental Associates
We’ve refined the restoration process to ensure your experience is efficient and comfortable. Using advanced imaging and design tools, we create restorations that fit perfectly and look as though they’ve always been part of your smile.
Step 1: Consultation and Evaluation
Your appointment begins with a thorough examination and digital imaging. This allows Dr. Whiteman to assess the damage and determine whether an inlay or onlay is the right option.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
After numbing the area, any decayed or weakened portions are carefully removed, leaving behind a clean, strong foundation for your restoration.
Step 3: Digital Design and Imaging
We use a precise scanner to capture a 3D image of your tooth. This ensures a flawless design and a restoration that fits securely and comfortably.
Step 4: Custom Fabrication
Your inlay or onlay is crafted from a block of durable material—typically porcelain, composite, or gold—depending on your preference and treatment plan. Each piece is shaped, colored, and refined to match your tooth perfectly.
Step 5: Placement and Bonding
Once ready, the inlay or onlay is bonded to your tooth with a high-strength resin. The restoration is then polished to a smooth finish, ensuring comfort and a natural feel when you bite down.
Step 6: Follow-Up
We check your bite and make any final adjustments to ensure the restoration feels natural and comfortable.
By combining craftsmanship with digital precision, we provide restorations that look beautiful, function naturally, and stand the test of time.
Material Options for Inlays and Onlays
We offer several material choices, each carefully selected to meet your clinical needs and aesthetic goals:
- Porcelain: Known for its strength, translucency, and lifelike color, porcelain is ideal for visible teeth.
- Composite Resin: A tooth-colored option that provides durability and affordability, best suited for smaller restorations.
- Gold: Highly durable and resistant to wear, gold remains an excellent choice for molars due to its strength and longevity.
During your consultation, we’ll review each material’s advantages and help you decide which best suits your restoration.
Caring for Your Inlays and Onlays
Proper care helps ensure that your restoration remains strong and attractive for years. Follow these simple steps to maintain your results:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss carefully around the restored tooth to keep the edges clean.
- Avoid chewing ice or very hard foods to prevent unnecessary stress.
- Visit for routine cleanings and checkups to ensure everything remains in great condition.
With consistent care, inlays and onlays maintain their strength and appearance for decades, helping protect your natural smile.
Why Patients Choose Whiteman Dental Associates for Inlays and Onlays
At Whiteman Dental Associates, restorative dentistry is guided by precision, artistry, and patient comfort. Every inlay and onlay is tailored to meet your needs, with meticulous attention to detail at every stage.
Dr. Daniel Whiteman’s experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry allows him to approach each case with both technical skill and aesthetic balance. We believe every restoration is an opportunity to create something that feels natural, looks beautiful, and lasts for years.
Our Boston practice provides a calm, supportive setting where communication is open and care is always personalized. From your first consultation to your final result, you’ll experience thoughtful, thorough care designed around your comfort and long-term health.
Insurance and Payment Details
Inlays and onlays are often covered by dental insurance when they’re necessary to restore function. Our team will verify your benefits, explain your coverage clearly, and provide a detailed estimate before treatment begins.
For patients without insurance, we offer flexible payment options and transparent pricing. Karen, our office manager, is available to help you understand every detail and make your experience smooth and stress-free.
Book Your Inlays and Onlays Appointment in Boston
If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, an inlay or onlay could restore its function and protect it for the future. At Whiteman Dental Associates, we focus on precision, comfort, and longevity in every restoration.
Our approach combines technology with craftsmanship to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results. Call today to schedule your appointment and take the next step toward a stronger, healthier smile.
Your Inlays and Onlays Questions Answered
How are inlays and onlays different from fillings?
Inlays and onlays are stronger, more durable restorations designed for larger areas of damage, while fillings are used for smaller cavities.
Can an inlay or onlay fix a cracked tooth?
Yes. Inlays and onlays are often used to repair cracks and fractures, restoring both appearance and strength.
Is the process painful?
No. The tooth is fully numbed during the procedure, and most patients experience only mild sensitivity afterward, which fades quickly.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With proper oral hygiene, these restorations can last between 10 and 30 years, depending on material and care.
Can I replace an old filling with an inlay or onlay?
Yes. Many patients choose to replace large or metal fillings with a more natural, durable restoration.
Do porcelain inlays and onlays stain?
Porcelain is highly resistant to staining. With regular brushing and professional cleanings, they maintain their brightness for many years.
What happens if my restoration chips?
Contact our office as soon as possible. Minor chips can often be repaired quickly without replacing the entire restoration.
Can inlays and onlays be used after a root canal?
Yes. They are a great option for reinforcing teeth that have undergone root canal therapy when a full crown isn’t needed.
Do I need special floss or tools to clean around my restoration?
Regular flossing and brushing are sufficient. However, if you have tight spaces, we may recommend an interdental brush for easier cleaning.
How soon can I eat after getting an inlay or onlay?
You can eat once the numbness wears off, usually within a few hours. We recommend soft foods on the first day to allow the bond to set fully.