Dental inlays and Onlays in New York, NY

Classified as somewhere between a tooth-colored filling and a crown, an inlay or onlay can restore a decayed or damaged tooth. Used on pre-molars and molars, a dental inlay covers the concave center of a tooth while an onlay covers the tooth's rounded, upper edges. Like fillings and crowns, inlays and onlays can be made with different materials — composite resin or porcelain. Our experienced dentists can help New York, NY patients better understand crowns, fillings, inlays, and onlays so they can make the best choice about how to treat their tooth at SmilesNY Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry.

An inlay or onlay is a good choice if you have a cracked tooth or a large cavity that is too big to get filled but doesn't need the complete coverage of a crown. During your exam, your dental specialist may use your digital x-rays to pick the best method for your tooth. If an inlay or onlay is selected, they will discuss the available materials that will best fit your requirements. You can also discuss whether you would prefer a direct restoration (an inlay or onlay made at our office with advanced technology while you wait) or an indirect restoration made at a dental laboratory.

After applying numbing cream to the treatment area, your SmilesNY dentist will start by removing areas of decay. Stronger methods of sedation can be used if you have anxiety or a strong gag reflex. Once the tooth is cleaned, impressions will be made of the tooth. If you are receiving an inlay or onlay made in a dental lab, a temporary filling will be placed until it is prepared. Once your inlay or onlay is ready, it will be carefully placed and bonded to your tooth. The edges may then be polished or the fit may be adjusted so your tooth is properly covered and feels comfortable.

If only local anesthesia was used, you can leave after the procedure and return to your normal day. You may feel some discomfort, inflammation, or sensitivity for a couple of days after your inlay or onlay is placed. Please contact SmilesNY if you have any concerns following your procedure. Your inlay or onlay can be cared for like your natural teeth with daily brushing and flossing. You should schedule annual dental exams and bi-annual cleanings at SmilesNY so the health and wear of your inlay or onlay can be assessed. With appropriate care, it should last for many years before replacing or repairing.

Inlays and onlays are a common treatment for dental decay and other issues, so they're usually covered by dental insurance. A team member will contact your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage before calculating your out-of-pocket costs. Your treatment can also be customized with different materials to fit with your budget. At your consultation, a member of our team will go over cost estimates and the payment types we accept, including medical financing.

Whether you pick an inlay or onlay, porcelain or resin, direct or indirect, it's important to deal with a decayed or damaged tooth before it becomes a painful and expensive problem. Learn more about inlays and onlays to restore your teeth by scheduling a consultation at SmilesNY in New York, NY. We will help improve your smile with the best treatment for your needs.