At Listiyo Family Dental in Long Beach, CA, we restore damaged teeth with inlays and onlays that provide lasting strength and natural beauty. These restorations are ideal when a filling isn’t enough, but a crown would remove too much healthy enamel. Designed for precision and durability, they restore function while preserving your natural tooth structure. Schedule an appointment today to see how this conservative treatment can enhance your smile’s health and confidence.
When To Consider Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are recommended when a tooth has moderate decay, fractures, or old restorations that no longer protect it properly. They offer dependable strength without the need for a full crown. It’s a practical way to restore comfort and maintain your natural smile.
- Moderate tooth damage: Perfect for teeth that need more support than a filling but not the full coverage of a crown
- Tooth conservation: Retains most of your natural enamel for better long-term tooth health
- Improved durability: Reinforces weak spots to handle everyday chewing and biting
- Aesthetic precision: Custom-colored and contoured to blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth
Differences Between Inlays, Onlays & Crowns
Each type of restoration is designed to address a different level of tooth repair. Inlays and onlays rebuild smaller areas of damage, while crowns cover an entire tooth for full protection. Think of them as varying levels of coverage created to match your individual needs.
- Inlays: Fill the inner chewing surface of a tooth—ideal for restoring small cavities or worn sections
- Onlays: Cover one or more cusps to strengthen larger areas while maintaining natural structure
- Crowns: Completely encase the visible portion of a tooth when extensive rebuilding is needed
- Personalized recommendation: Dr. Listiyo will determine which option restores your tooth effectively while keeping as much natural structure as possible
Step-By-Step Treatment Process
Getting an inlay or onlay is straightforward, precise, and comfortable. Each step focuses on restoring your tooth’s natural shape and strength while ensuring an excellent fit. The process results in a durable, natural-looking restoration that feels just like your own tooth.
- Comprehensive evaluation: Your dentist examines the affected tooth and discusses the best treatment plan
- Tooth preparation: The damaged area is cleaned and shaped to create a smooth base for the restoration
- Custom fabrication: A detailed impression is used to craft a restoration that matches your tooth’s size and color
- Bonding and finishing: The inlay or onlay is securely bonded and polished for a flawless, natural finish
Benefits Of Conservative Restorations
Inlays and onlays are designed to restore strength and beauty while preserving what’s already healthy. They’re durable, comfortable, and crafted to complement your natural smile. Patients appreciate their reliability and natural feel.
- Natural appearance: Matches your enamel for a seamless, realistic result
- Added protection: Strengthens weakened areas to prevent further damage
- Minimally invasive: Requires less removal of healthy tooth material than a crown
- Easy care: Maintained through regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups
Longevity & Maintenance Tips
With proper care, inlays and onlays can protect your teeth for many years. Practicing daily oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly help extend their lifespan. Consistency is the key to keeping your smile strong.
- Daily hygiene: Brush and floss thoroughly to prevent decay near the restoration
- Avoid hard foods: Reduces unnecessary pressure that could chip or loosen the restoration
- Routine checkups: Allow your dentist to monitor the fit and integrity over time
- Nightguard protection: Recommended if you grind or clench your teeth to prevent excess wear
Keep Your Smile Strong,
Beautiful & Natural
Inlays and onlays are an ideal way to restore damaged teeth while keeping your natural enamel intact. This precise, conservative treatment enhances both the strength and beauty of your smile with results that feel completely natural. Patients trust Dr. Listiyo for customized, detail-oriented care that ensures every restoration lasts. Schedule your appointment today at Listiyo Family Dental in Long Beach, CA, and rediscover the confidence of a smile built to last.