When We Recommend an Inlay or Onlay
Inlays and onlays aren’t used for every damaged tooth. Instead, they’re recommended for cases where strength, durability, and enamel preservation all matter. We frequently suggest these restorations for patients who experience:
- A cracked or fractured area that is too large for a traditional filling
- A worn, leaking, or broken metal or composite filling
- Moderate tooth decay that doesn’t justify a full crown
- A weakened tooth caused by grinding or clenching
- The desire to avoid unnecessary drilling associated with crowns
Instead of relying on guesswork, we use digital imaging to show you exactly what is happening inside your tooth. During your exam, you’ll see a clear visual of the damaged area and understand why a conservative restoration like an inlay or onlay may offer the best long-term outcome.
Our goal is simple: protect your natural tooth whenever possible while giving you the stability and comfort you need to chew confidently again.
How Inlays and Onlays Work (Explained Simply)
While fillings rebuild small areas of decay and crowns cover the entire tooth, inlays and onlays repair a moderately damaged tooth using a custom-designed piece of porcelain. Here’s the difference:
- Inlays restore the inner chewing surface of the tooth.
- Onlays repair one or more of the tooth’s cusps (the raised edges used for chewing).
Think of them as precision-crafted restorations that replace only the damaged section—nothing more. Because we bond them directly to enamel, inlays and onlays create an incredibly strong reinforcement that often lasts longer than traditional fillings. They also blend seamlessly with your natural tooth, unlike older metal alternatives.
Many patients choose them because they offer a balance of strength, beauty, and tooth preservation. When designed and placed correctly, they can help your tooth function normally for many years.
Our Step-by-Step Tooth Restoration Process
At Cornerstone Dentistry, we follow a meticulous and patient-centered process to ensure your restoration is comfortable, functional, and long-lasting.
1. Thorough evaluation & digital imaging
We begin with a gentle exam and high-resolution imaging to assess the internal structure of your tooth. This allows us to determine whether an inlay, onlay, filling, or crown is the best option.
2. Conserving your natural enamel
If we proceed with the restoration, we carefully remove only the damaged area. Preserving your enamel is crucial because it keeps your tooth stronger and healthier over time.
3. 3D scanning or impression
Once the tooth is prepared, we capture a detailed digital scan or impression. This ensures your restoration will fit perfectly, with no gaps or rough edges.
4. Creating your custom porcelain restoration
Your restoration is crafted from durable, tooth-colored porcelain designed to match your natural shade. The material is long-lasting, stain-resistant, and highly aesthetic.
5. Bonding your inlay or onlay
When your restoration is ready, we bond it securely to your tooth and polish it to a smooth, natural finish. We check your bite carefully to ensure complete comfort.
6. Immediate return to normal function
Most patients are able to chew comfortably right away, though we recommend avoiding extremely hard foods for the first day while the bonding fully sets.
This entire process emphasizes comfort, precision, and preservation—three things we value in every treatment we provide.
Inlay vs Onlay vs Crown: What’s the Right Choice?
Not every tooth needs the same level of restoration. Here’s how we help you choose the best option:
When a filling isn’t enough
If the damaged or decayed area is too large for a filling to remain stable, an inlay or onlay is typically recommended.
When a crown is more than you need
Crowns require removing more enamel than some patients want or need. If your tooth still has strong, healthy structure, a crown may be unnecessary.
When an onlay is the best middle ground
For many of our patients, onlays reinforce the tooth without the more extensive drilling required for a crown. They protect the chewing surface and cusps while preserving the healthy enamel you still have.
Our philosophy is simple:
Only restore what’s damaged. Never remove what’s healthy.
Why Patients Trust Cornerstone Dentistry for Tooth Restoration
Choosing the right dentist matters just as much as choosing the right restoration. Patients throughout Anderson and surrounding areas rely on Cornerstone Dentistry because we offer:
- Decades of combined experience in restorative dentistry
- A conservative treatment philosophy that protects your natural teeth
- Modern imaging, scanning, and diagnostic technology
- Durable porcelain materials for longer-lasting results
- Comfort-focused care from start to finish
- Clear explanations and personalized recommendations
We want every patient to feel confident, cared for, and fully informed during their visit. Your comfort and long-term oral health always come first.
Long-Term Benefits of Choosing an Inlay or Onlay
Patients who choose custom restorations often enjoy:
- A stronger, reinforced tooth structure
- Better long-term durability than large fillings
- Natural appearance and seamless blending
- Preservation of healthy enamel
- Less drilling compared to crowns
- Lower risk of future cracking or breakage
With proper care and regular checkups, many restorations last well over a decade.
Aftercare and What to Expect
Most patients experience little to no discomfort after treatment. You may notice mild sensitivity for a few days, which gradually improves. Brush and floss as normal, avoid very hard or sticky foods immediately afterward, and attend your regular cleanings so we can monitor the restoration’s health over time.
Cost, Insurance, and Payment Options
The cost of inlays and onlays varies depending on the tooth, the material, and your specific treatment needs. Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for these restorations. Our team is always happy to verify your benefits and explain your out-of-pocket costs ahead of time.
For patients without insurance or those seeking additional flexibility, we offer convenient payment options to make treatment as accessible as possible.
Your Tooth Deserves Expert Care — We’re Ready When You Are
If you’re experiencing pain, sensitivity, or a cracked filling, let our team help restore your tooth with a conservative and long-lasting solution. Call us today at (864) 222-3500 or request an appointment through our website.
Your smile deserves a restoration that protects what’s healthy and strengthens what’s damaged. We’re here to provide exactly that.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with your Anderson dental team, give us a call at (864) 222-9001 or request an appointment online! We look forward to hearing from you!
