Porcelain Inlays And Onlays In San Jose, CA
Dental inlays and onlays restore decayed or fractured teeth when a filling is not enough and a crown would remove too much healthy enamel. At My AZ Dental in San Jose, CA, this conservative restorative option helps protect tooth structure and support long-term oral health while keeping your bite comfortable and functional.
About Dental Inlays And Onlays
A dental inlay fits within the grooves of a tooth to repair damage that is too large for a standard filling. An onlay covers one or more cusps, extending over the biting surface to rebuild a weakened area. Both are custom-made restorations created from durable materials such as porcelain, zirconia, or high-strength composite.
Patients often ask about inlay vs filling and onlay vs crown. An inlay or onlay is an “indirect” restoration made outside the mouth and bonded in place for a precise fit. This approach can provide better strength and seal for moderate damage. A crown becomes the choice when the tooth needs full coverage due to extensive cracks, wear, or root canal treatment.
How Inlays And Onlays Can Help Your Tooth
- Conserves Healthy Enamel. Less removal of natural tooth structure compared to a full crown.
- Strengthens The Tooth. Bonded materials reinforce weakened areas and resist fracture.
- Seals Against Decay. Exact fit reduces gaps where bacteria can collect.
- Natural Look. Tooth-colored porcelain or composite blends with surrounding teeth.
- Comfortable Function. Restores proper shape for smoother chewing and bite.
How The Inlay And Onlay Procedure Works
The process typically takes two visits and follows a clear set of steps.
- Evaluation And Planning. The tooth is examined, and images help confirm whether an inlay or onlay is the best option.
- Tooth Preparation. Decay or old filling material is removed, and the tooth is shaped for a precise restoration.
- Impressions Or Digital Scan. A mold or scan is taken to design the custom piece with accurate contacts and bite.
- Temporary Protection. A temporary restoration protects the tooth while the lab fabricates the final inlay or onlay.
- Bonding And Finishing. At the second visit, the fit is verified, the restoration is bonded, and the bite is adjusted and polished.
What To Expect
Local anesthesia keeps you comfortable during preparation. Mild sensitivity to temperature or chewing pressure can occur for a few days and usually improves quickly. Porcelain inlay aftercare and onlay care are straightforward: Brush twice daily with a soft brush, floss gently around the margins, and avoid very sticky foods for the first 24 hours after bonding.
How long do inlays last? With good home care and regular checkups, many inlays and onlays last 10 to 15 years or longer. Longevity varies with bite forces, grinding or clenching habits, diet, and overall oral hygiene. Wearing a nightguard when recommended helps protect your restoration from excessive wear.