Inlays & Onlays

You may have a big filling that needs replacement due to cracks or decay. Do you have to get a full crown? Not necessarily. A more conservative option, inlays and onlays, fit into a tooth similar to a filling, yet they are custom-made porcelain restorations, much like crowns. The bumps on top of a tooth are called cusps. Inlays fit between cusps, while onlays fit over one or more cusps. Inlays and onlays allow a patient to retain more natural tooth structure, which is always best.

Not every situation is right for an inlay or onlay, but Dr. Fisher and Dr. Zitterich will assess your situation and determine the best solution for you. Because they are custom-created in a lab like a crown, inlays and onlays require two appointments. At the first visit, we will prepare your tooth by removing your tooth decay or old filling and cleaning the area. We will take an impression and send it to our dental lab so that our technician can create a custom inlay or onlay for you.

At the second appointment, we will remove your temporary and permanently bond your final inlay or onlay into position. After polishing and adjusting the restoration as necessary to ensure proper bite alignment, you’ll enjoy your stronger, healthier tooth for years to come.