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Inlays

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Dental Inlays and Onlays at Bright Smiles

Bright Smiles restores smiles with dental inlays and onlays. Our offices in Cumming, GA, Lawrenceville, and Dawsonville provide advanced dental treatments that conserve enamel, strengthen bites, and improve aesthetics. Call (678) 941-5151 to schedule your consultation.
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What Is an Inlay?

An inlay is a precise dental restoration placed inside the teeth to repair moderate tooth decay or fractures. Unlike a traditional filling, an inlay is crafted in a lab and bonded securely. Inlays and onlays conserve more tooth structure than crowns and provide long-lasting stability.

When Dentists Use Inlays and Onlays

A dentist recommends inlays and onlays when:

A cavity is too large for a direct filling.

Decay weakens cusps.

Patients have damaged teeth or decayed teeth needing precision.

Old metal fillings or composites require replacement.

Inlays or onlays offer balance between fillings and crowns by conserving original teeth while restoring function.
Surgeons and nurse during a dental operation.
Dentist using dental microscope for examination

Differences Between Inlays and Onlays

An inlay fits within cusps.

An onlay covers one or more cusps.

Partial crowns describe large onlays that replace cusp strength.

A dental onlay protects broader chewing surfaces.

Dentists use an inlay and onlay depending on material used and tooth structure affected.

Inlays and onlays are designed to restore while preserving maximum enamel.

Materials Used

Material used for inlays and onlays includes:

Composite resin:

Natural appearance, easy to bond.

Porcelain:

Stain-resistant, strong.

Porcelain inlays:

Highly aesthetic, custom fit.

Porcelain or composite resin:

Most common modern choice.

Gold:

Classic strength and longevity.
Another popular material for inlays remains porcelain because it blends with natural teeth.
Dentist showing dental prosthesis to patient in clinic
Prosthetics and dental treatment, model of the jaw in the hands of a dentist

The Inlay Procedure

The inlay procedure involves steps:

A dentist removes decay and shapes the tooth.

An impression records the tooth structure.

A lab creates a custom dental inlay or onlay in a dental laboratory.

A temporary filling protects the tooth.

The permanent restoration bonds with dental adhesive.

This dental procedure ensures accuracy and stability.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

The benefits of inlays and onlays include:

Longer lifespan than direct fillings.

Better fit for large cavities.

Strength without removing too much enamel.

Natural blending with original teeth.

Superior durability and resistance to wear.

Inlays and onlays are excellent choices when patients want conservative yet durable results.
Serious focused pedodontist performing tooth restoration procedure
Young female dentist going to do oral checkup of oral cavity of little patient

Inlays vs. Fillings and Crowns

Inlays:

Stronger than direct fillings, crafted in labs.

Fillings:

Best for small cavities.

Crowns:

Cover entire tooth, used when tooth structure is severely weakened.

Inlays vs. crowns:

Inlays conserve more enamel.
Inlays replace large fillings and reduce fracture risks.

Restorative Function

Inlays and onlays provide strength for chewing. Inlays and onlays offer aesthetics and protection. Inlays due their longevity to precision bonding. Inlays and onlays are often recommended after large filling failures.

Inlays and onlays are known for conserving enamel. Inlays and onlays are similar in design but differ in coverage.

Prosthetic Dentistry. Scanning Teeth with Dental Camera. 3d Camera in Tooth Reconstruction Procedure
Dentistry

Durability and Longevity

Onlays can last decades with proper dental hygiene. Onlays extend coverage to protect weakened enamel. Onlays are made from porcelain, composite, or gold.

With oral hygiene and dental check-ups, patients maintain inlays or onlays for decades.

Restorative and Cosmetic Value

Restorative strength supports function.

Inlays and onlays provide cosmetic appeal through color matching.

Inlays and onlays offer predictable protection for natural teeth.

Patients seeking to restore damaged teeth benefit most.
Dental examination of young woman at dental clinic.

Local Expertise

Stomatologist setting dental sealants in person teeth

Inlays in Cumming, GA

Bright Smiles in Cumming, GA provides precise inlay treatment for dental caries and fractures. Patients trust our dental surgeon for custom restorations.

Inlays in Lawrenceville, GA

In Lawrenceville, we craft composite and porcelain inlays that protect and restore. Our dentists explain every step of getting a dental restoration.

Inlays in Dawsonville, GA

Our special dental team in Dawsonville uses dental porcelain and composite resin for dental inlays and onlays that conserve tooth structure.

Maintenance and Dental Care

Patients preserve results with dental care and oral hygiene:

Brush your teeth daily.

Floss around inlays.

Schedule dental appointments every six months.

These practices protect inlays and onlays are used for decades.
Orthodontist using digital scanner to make 3D image of the teeth and gums . Orthodontic treatment
Blonde woman dentist using digital tablet at dental clinic

Call Bright Smiles Today

If you want precise restorations, call Bright Smiles at (678) 941-5151. Our offices in Cumming, GA, Lawrenceville, and Dawsonville deliver inlays and onlays are designed for durability, aesthetics, and function.

FAQ :

1. What are dental inlays and onlays, and how do they help restore teeth?
Dental inlays and onlays are custom restorations crafted from porcelain, composite resin, or gold to restore teeth with moderate decay or fractures. Inlays fit inside the cusps of a tooth, while onlays cover the cusps. These restorations preserve tooth structure and provide a durable, natural-looking solution for damaged teeth. At Bright Smiles in Cumming, Lawrenceville, and Dawsonville, we recommend these options for patients who want to preserve their natural teeth while restoring function and appearance.
2. Why would my dentist recommend an inlay or onlay over a traditional filling or crown?
Inlays and onlays are often recommended when a cavity is too large for a filling but not severe enough to require a crown. They are a conservative treatment option that preserves more enamel than crowns and is stronger than direct fillings. At Bright Smiles in Cumming, Lawrenceville, and Dawsonville, we use inlays and onlays for large cavities, fractured teeth, or when old fillings need replacement.
3. What materials are used for dental inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays can be made from various materials, including:
Porcelain: Durable and natural-looking, ideal for aesthetic restorations.

Composite resin: Blends well with natural teeth and is often used for smaller restorations.

Gold: Extremely durable but less commonly used for aesthetic purposes.
The choice of material depends on the tooth’s location, the size of the cavity, and your aesthetic preferences. Our team at Bright Smiles will help you choose the best material for your needs.

4. What is the procedure for getting an inlay or onlay?
The process for inlays and onlays typically involves two visits:
Examination and preparation: The dentist will remove any decay and take an impression of your tooth.

Custom restoration and placement: A dental lab will create the inlay or onlay, and at your second visit, your dentist will bond it securely to your tooth using adhesive cement. The restoration is then polished for a natural look.

5. How do inlays and onlays differ from crowns?
Inlays restore the chewing surface inside the cusps of a tooth.

Onlays cover one or more cusps and extend to larger areas of the tooth.

Crowns cover the entire tooth and are used when there is severe damage.
Inlays and onlays preserve more natural tooth structure than crowns, making them an excellent option when conservation is important. At Bright Smiles, we offer inlays and onlays as a conservative alternative to crowns for moderate tooth damage.

6. How long do inlays and onlays last?
With proper care, inlays and onlays can last 10–20 years. They are highly durable and resistant to wear, making them a long-lasting solution for tooth restoration. To extend the lifespan of your inlays and onlays, practice good oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups at our Cumming, Lawrenceville, and Dawsonville offices.
7. What are the benefits of choosing inlays and onlays over traditional fillings?
The benefits of inlays and onlays include:
Preservation of tooth structure

Stronger and more durable than regular fillings

Natural appearance that blends with the color of your teeth

Better fit for large cavities or fractures

Resistance to stains and wear
At Bright Smiles, we recommend inlays and onlays for patients who need aesthetic and long-lasting solutions for tooth restoration.

8. Are inlays and onlays a good option for front teeth?
Yes! Porcelain and composite resin inlays are excellent for front teeth because they can be customized to match the natural color and shape of your teeth. These restorations are durable and provide a natural look, making them a great choice for visible teeth. At Bright Smiles in Cumming, Lawrenceville, and Dawsonville, we offer aesthetic restorations for both front and back teeth.
9. Are inlays and onlays covered by dental insurance?
Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of inlays and onlays if they are used to restore dental health. However, insurance coverage may vary based on the material used and the reason for the restoration. At Bright Smiles, we provide transparent cost estimates and will help you understand your insurance benefits for inlays and onlays.
10. How do I care for my inlays and onlays to ensure they last?
To care for your inlays and onlays:
Brush and floss regularly to prevent decay around the restoration.

Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens, which can damage the restoration.

If you grind your teeth at night, wear a nightguard to protect your restorations.
With proper care, inlays and onlays can provide long-term protection for your teeth. Our team at Bright Smiles will provide care instructions to help maintain the longevity of your restorations.

Restore Your Smile with an Inlay

If you have a damaged or decayed tooth that needs restoration, an inlay could be the perfect solution to restore both function and beauty. At Bright Smiles Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, vibrant smile that you can be proud of.

Contact us today at (678) 941-5151 to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient locations in Dawsonville, Cumming, or Lawrenceville, GA. Let us help you explore your options for tooth restoration and get you back to smiling with confidence!

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