inlays and Onlays in Wichita Falls, TX

Identified between a regular filling and a crown, a dental inlay or onlay can heal a damaged or decayed tooth. Used on molars and pre-molars, a dental inlay covers the concave center of a tooth while an onlay covers the rounded, upper edges of a tooth. Like dental fillings and crowns, inlays and onlays can be made from a variety of materials — composite resin, metal, and porcelain. Our team of certified dentists can help Wichita Falls, TX patients better understand fillings, crowns, inlays, and onlays so they can make an informed decision about how to treat their tooth at Stone Lake Dental.

A dental inlay or onlay is a good choice if you have a damaged tooth or a large cavity that is too big to get filled but doesn't need the full coverage of a crown. During your examination, we will use your digital x-rays to decide on the best treatment for your tooth. If an inlay or onlay is selected, we will go over the available materials that will best suit your needs. You might also discuss whether you would prefer a direct restoration (an inlay or onlay made at our office with CEREC technology while you wait) or an indirect restoration made at a dental laboratory.

After applying local anesthesia to numb the treatment area, the procedure will begin 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 indirect restoration, a temporary filling will be placed until it is prepared. Once your restoration is ready, it will be carefully placed and bonded onto your tooth. The edges may then be polished or the fit may be adjusted so your tooth is properly covered and your restoration feels comfortable.

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

Inlays and onlays are a common treatment for dental decay and other damage so they are usually covered by dental insurance. Our office will contact your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage before calculating your out-of-pocket costs. We can customize your treatment with different materials to fit your budget. During your consultation, we can also go over cost estimates and the many payment methods we accept, including medical financing.

Whether you select an inlay or onlay, porcelain or metal, direct or indirect, it's important to treat a decayed or damaged tooth before it becomes a painful and expensive problem. Learn more about dental inlays and onlays to restore your teeth by scheduling a consultation at Stone Lake Dental in Wichita Falls, TX. Our experienced team will help improve your smile and oral health with the best treatment for your specific needs.