Inlays & Onlays in Wexford, PA

Comprehensive, Effective Restorations

When a cavity forms on a tooth or decay occurs, the affected area and damage can vary. Sometimes, a standard filling doesn’t do the trick, and the restorative solution doesn’t require as invasive a procedure as a dental crown. Our Wexford office offers customized composite inlays and onlays for these situations. Learn more about this treatment and how it can benefit you with our guide below.

What Are Inlays & Onlays?

You’re probably familiar with the terms fillings and crowns, which are popular restorative dental procedures designed to protect and heal decaying or damaged teeth. However, there are less commonly known treatments in dentistry, such as inlays and onlays.

So, what is the difference between all these treatments? Fillings are used to fix small holes in the tooth caused by cavities, and crowns are used when the majority of a tooth is decayed or broken. Inlays and onlays are excellent solutions for when a tooth’s decay rests in a “middle-ground” between fillings and crowns. Inlays are used to treat cavities and fill the area between a tooth’s cusps, whereas onlays treat larger areas of the tooth, including the cusps.

Inlays and onlays are custom-made composite restorations, meaning Dr. Gabriel can alter the color, shape, and size of your filling to blend with your bite and smile seamlessly. Dentists highly recommend these restorations because of their versatility and simple application process.

When Do I Need an Inlay or Onlay?

The versatility of inlays and onlays makes them excellent restorative tools. Our dental team use them to treat various dental issues, such as:

  • Broken, damaged teeth
  • Decay
  • Fractured fillings
  • Large fillings
  • Cosmetic enhancements

Placing Your Inlays & Onlays?

The application process of inlays and onlays is straightforward and only requires two visits to our Wexford office. First, Dr. Gabriel will administer a local anesthetic to the affected area to ensure you’re comfortable and that your procedure is painless. If you suffer from heightened dental anxiety or stress, talk with our team about sedation dentistry options beforehand. 

Once the numbing agent takes effect, our experienced dental team will remove any infection or decay in the tooth. Then, the doctor will take detailed digital impressions of the area to create the inlay or onlay. We will place a temporary restoration while our lab manufactures your customized one. 

Once the restoration is ready, Dr. Gabriel will remove your temporary filling, clean the area again, and fasten your inlay or onlay securely to the tooth. Finally, once your restoration is attached, you’ll be ready to enjoy the benefits of a strong, healthy, beautiful smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

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