Inlays & Onlays in Rochester, NY
When a tooth is too damaged for a simple filling but doesn’t require a full crown, inlays and onlays provide the ideal balance of strength and conservation. At Westfall Dental Studio, we offer inlays and onlays in Rochester, NY to restore damaged teeth with precision, durability, and a natural appearance.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations, sometimes called “partial crowns,” designed to repair teeth with moderate damage or decay.
- Inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth’s chewing surface.
- Onlays cover a larger portion of the tooth, often including one or more cusps.
Both are crafted from strong, tooth-colored ceramic or porcelain for a seamless look.
Benefits of Inlays & Onlays
- More durable than traditional fillings
- Preserve more natural tooth structure than crowns
- Resistant to wear and staining
- Provide a precise, comfortable fit
- Long-lasting with proper care
When Are Inlays & Onlays Recommended?
Our dentists may recommend inlays or onlays when:
- A cavity is too large for a filling but not severe enough for a crown
- An old filling has failed and needs replacement
- A tooth has moderate cracks or wear that compromise its strength
They are often used as part of a conservative restorative plan to save as much natural tooth as possible.
The Inlay & Onlay Process
- Evaluation & Preparation – We assess the tooth and prepare it for restoration.
- Impressions – A custom mold is taken to create your inlay or onlay.
- Temporary Protection – A temporary filling may be placed while your restoration is crafted.
- Final Placement – The inlay or onlay is bonded to your tooth for a precise, lasting fit.
Inlays & Onlays as Part of Comprehensive Restorative Care
At Westfall Dental Studio, we use inlays and onlays alongside other treatments to strengthen smiles:
- Dental crowns for more extensive damage
- Bridges or implants for missing teeth
- Full mouth reconstruction when multiple teeth need restoration
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FAQs About Inlays & Onlays
We recommend their first visit by age 1, or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With proper care, they can last 10–15 years or longer.
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
They are stronger and longer-lasting than fillings, especially for larger cavities.
Do inlays and onlays look natural?
Yes. They are custom-made from tooth-colored materials for a seamless match.
Is the procedure painful?
No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients report little to no discomfort.
What’s the difference between an onlay and a crown?
Onlays cover only part of the tooth, while crowns cover the entire visible surface. Onlays preserve more natural tooth structure.
Restore Strength with Inlays & Onlays in Rochester
If you have a damaged tooth that needs more than a filling but less than a crown, inlays and onlays may be the perfect solution. Call (585) 461-1200 or request an appointment online to schedule your visit at Westfall Dental Studio.
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