Dental Inlays & Onlays

Protect Your Teeth and Improve Your Smile with Inlays and Onlays

Are your teeth in need of repair but not so damaged they need a dental crown? Dental inlays and onlays may be the solution you need. At DiBartola Dental, Bridgeville, PA, cosmetic dentist Dr. Wayne DiBartola and our team offer inlays and onlays for a healthier, more beautiful smile. Learn about dental inlays and onlays and whether you may benefit by calling our Bridgeville dental practice at (412) 221-9440.

What are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays, also

known as indirect fillings or partial crowns, are advanced dental restoration procedures used to address tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, and other dental concerns. Inlays and onlays are used when the damage to the tooth is too large for a filling but not large enough for a crown. They’re larger than fillings but smaller than crowns and are designed to fit perfectly into the tooth, providing more strength than fillings. 

Inlays are typically used for inner tooth damage, while onlays extend to cover one or more cusps, providing added support and protection. These restorations are meticulously designed to fit into the structure of your teeth. 

Materials Used for Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays can be

crafted from a range of materials, such as porcelain, gold, and composite resin, each with its own merits and drawbacks. The choice of material can impact the longevity, aesthetics, and overall effectiveness of the restoration.

Porcelain

Porcelain inlays and onlays offer an aesthetically pleasing and durable solution, making them a preferred choice for many patients. They are extremely durable and can withstand severe damage without needing to be replaced. Additionally, porcelain provides a tight seal around the tooth, preventing further harm, illness, or irritation.

In terms of durability, porcelain inlays and onlays can last between 10 and 30 years. Their high survival rate and resistance to wear and stains make them a popular choice for dental restoration. Moreover, porcelain’s natural and lifelike appearance gives it a superior aesthetic appeal compared to other materials like gold or composite resin.

Gold

Gold inlays and onlays are known for their longevity and biocompatibility, but may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other materials. Despite their less appealing appearance, gold inlays and onlays offer numerous benefits, such as being long-lasting and biologically compatible with the human body.

The process for creating gold inlays and onlays, also known as gold restorations, requires taking an impression of the tooth and sending it to a dental laboratory, where the restoration is fabricated using gold material. Gold inlays and onlays can be expected to last up to 30 years or more with appropriate oral hygiene and routine dental examinations.

Composite Resin

Composite resin or tooth-colored inlays and onlays provide a more affordable option with good aesthetics, but may not last as long as porcelain or gold. This tooth-colored material is composed of plastic and glass and is available in a range of shades, making it an attractive choice for many patients.

The fabrication of composite resin inlays and onlays can be completed using either the direct technique, where the restoration is created directly in the patient’s mouth, or the indirect technique, where it is created in a dental laboratory and then bonded to the tooth with dental adhesive. While composite resin offers a cost-effective solution, it may not be as robust and long-lasting as porcelain or gold.

Benefits of Dental Inlays and Onlays

Some of the many advantages of dental inlays and onlays include:

• Improved Strength and Durability: Inlays and onlays are remarkably strong and can between 10 and 30 years with proper care.
• Enhanced Aesthetic Appearance: These restorations are custom-made to blend with your natural teeth, providing a natural-looking, beautiful smile.
• Increased Tooth Preservation: Inlays and onlays require less tooth structure removal compared to a basic filling, preserving the strength of the tooth.
• Reduced Risk of Decay: The tight fit of these restorations helps prevent bacteria and decay from entering the tooth.
• Improved Comfort: Dental inlays and dental onlays are designed to fit your entire tooth perfectly, eliminating the risk of discomfort or sensitivity.
• Versatility: Dental inlays and dental onlays can repair various dental problems, including cavities, fractures, and mild to moderate tooth decay.
• Functionality: Both inlays and onlays restore the functionality of damaged or decayed teeth, allowing for comfortable chewing and biting without compromising aesthetics.
• Easy Maintenance: Inlays and onlays are easy to clean and maintain, promoting good oral hygiene habits and helping to prevent future dental issues.

Who Qualifies for Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Patients in Bridgeville, PA, and the surrounding areas who may benefit from dental inlays and onlays include those with:

• Moderate to severe tooth decay or damage that is too extensive for a traditional filling
• Large, old, or failing fillings that need to be replaced
• Cracks, chips, or worn-down teeth
• Hopes to improve the appearance of their smile
• Large cavities or tooth structure loss
• A history of dental issues or teeth grinding
• The need for a more durable and long-lasting solution than traditional fillings

The Inlays and Onlays Process

Consultation

You’ll attend an initial appointment with your trusted Bridgeville cosmetic dentist at DiBartola Dental. During this consultation, your oral health will be evaluated, and a thorough examination of your teeth will be conducted to determine if inlays and onlays are the ideal choice for your restoration needs.

Preparation

Once you’ve been approved for the placement of partial crowns or indirect fillings, any existing decay or damage will be carefully removed from the affected tooth. Your dentist will then take precise impressions of your tooth, which serve as the blueprints for crafting your customized inlay or onlay.

Installing Inlays and Onlays

Once your personalized restorations are fabricated, they’ll be meticulously placed and bonded onto your tooth, ensuring a seamless fit and optimal functionality. Your dentist will pay close attention to aesthetics, ensuring your new restoration blends seamlessly with the shape of your natural teeth.

Aftercare for Inlays and Onlays

To maintain the longevity and appearance of your inlays and onlays, it’s important to follow these aftercare instructions:

• Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth and around the restorations.
• Schedule regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with your Bridgeville cosmetic dentist at DiBartola Dental.
• Avoid chewing on hard objects or biting into excessively sticky foods that could potentially damage the restorations.
• Promptly contact our Bridgeville dental office at (412) 221-9440 if you experience any discomfort, or sensitivity, or notice any changes in the appearance or functionality of your inlays or onlays.

Financing Dental Inlays and Onlays

No matter your financial situation, Dr. DiBartola and our team are committed to working with you to find a payment solution that fits your needs and budget. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality dental care, and we’ll do our best to ensure that cost isn’t a barrier to achieving a healthy, beautiful smile through treatments like inlays and onlays.

Insurance Coverage

At DiBartola Dental, we understand that dental treatments like inlays and onlays can be a significant investment. That’s why we work closely with many major insurance providers to help our patients maximize their coverage and minimize out-of-pocket expenses. Our knowledgeable staff will gladly assist you in navigating your insurance policy and filing claims to ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to for your dental inlay or onlay procedure.

Third-Party Financing with CareCredit

DiBartola Dental partners with

CareCredit®, a leading healthcare financing company, to provide patients with flexible and affordable payment plans. CareCredit offers interest-free financing options and extended payment terms, ensuring that you can receive the necessary inlays, onlays, or other dental treatments without putting undue strain on your budget.

Major Credit Cards

For your convenience, we accept most major credit cards at our Bridgeville dental office as a payment option for dental inlays, onlays, and other services. This allows you to use your existing credit card and potentially earn rewards or cash back on your dental care expenses.

Cash or Check Payments

We also accept traditional payment

methods like cash or personal checks for those who prefer to pay for their inlays, onlays, or other dental procedures upfront.

Prepayment Discount

At DiBartola Dental, we offer a 10 percent prepayment discount to patients who pay in full with cash or check for their inlay or onlay treatment before the procedure. This discount is our way of rewarding patients who can pay the full amount upfront to help make these dental restorations more affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can inlays and onlays be placed on the front teeth?

Yes, inlays and onlays can be used on both front and back teeth, depending on the extent of the damage. Your dentist will let you know about your options and discuss how they can benefit you.  

Are inlays and onlays permanent?

While inlays and onlays are highly durable, they may need replacement over time due to normal wear and tear. Follow all instructions for care, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits, to help ensure your inlays and onlays last as long as possible. 

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure for placing inlays and onlays usually takes two appointments. The first appointment is for preparation and impressions, and the second appointment is for installing the inlay or onlay.

Are inlays and onlays painful?

The procedure is usually pain-free as a local anesthetic is used to numb the area beforehand. Any lingering discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Call DiBartola Dental for a Stunning Smile with Dental Inlays and Onlays!

Inlays and onlays are remarkable solutions for improving both the appearance and health of your teeth. If you’re considering inlays and onlays to restore your smile, DiBartola Dental, your trusted Bridgeville cosmetic dentist, is here to help 

Contact us at (412) 221-9440 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how inlays and onlays can improve your dental health and aesthetics. DiBartola Dental offers inlays and onlays to patients near our Bridgeville office and patients from surrounding areas such as Heidelberg, Carnegie, & Upper Saint Clair, PA.