Fillings, Inlay, Onlays and Bonding

Inlays and Onlays

While fillings are placed directly into the tooth in a single visit, inlays and onlays are custom-fabricated restorations created in a dental lab for superior strength and fit.

• Inlays – Used for smaller areas of damage that do not extend beyond the tooth cusps (the raised edges).
• Onlays – Designed for larger areas of damage, extending over one or more cusps of the tooth for added protection and reinforcement.

Both inlays and onlays can be made from porcelain, ceramic, composite resin, or gold.

Getting an inlay or onlay typically takes two appointments:

1. Preparation & Digital Scan – The damaged portion of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is shaped for the restoration. We then take a precise digital scan, which is sent to a trusted dental lab for fabrication. A temporary filling protects your tooth while the final restoration is made.

2. Placement & Bonding – Once ready, your custom inlay or onlay is checked for fit and aesthetics, then permanently bonded to your tooth. We make final adjustments to ensure a comfortable bite.

Why Choose Inlays or Onlays?

• More durable and longer-lasting than standard fillings
• Provide a precise fit and excellent aesthetics
• Ideal for restoring posterior teeth that require strength and longevity

Are Inlays and Onlays Right for You?

Inlays and onlays are ideal for teeth with too much damage for a filling but not enough to require a full crown. They are especially effective for posterior teeth where strength and precision matter most. Our team will evaluate your tooth and determine whether an inlay, onlay, or another restoration is the best option for your needs.

Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin directly to the surface of the tooth. This resin is sculpted by hand, allowing us to recreate natural tooth contours and blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth.
It’s called “bonding” because the material chemically adheres to your enamel without the need for extensive drilling or altering healthy tooth structure where there’s no decay.

What Can Bonding Fix?

Dental bonding is a flexible solution for a variety of cosmetic and functional concerns, including:

• Repairing chipped or cracked teeth
• Restoring worn edges
• Closing small spaces or gaps between teeth
• Reshaping uneven teeth for a more harmonious smile
• Protecting exposed worn out tooth roots due to gum recession
• Improving discoloration that can’t be corrected with whitening alone

The Dental Bonding Process

Bonding is typically completed in one comfortable appointment and often requires minimal to no anesthesia. The process includes:

1. Tooth preparation – The surface of the tooth is lightly etched to improve adhesion.

2. Resin application – We apply a custom-shaded composite resin to match your surrounding teeth.

3. Shaping and sculpting – The resin is carefully molded to the desired shape.

4. Curing and polishing – A special light hardens the resin, which is then polished to a natural, smooth finish.

Benefits of Dental Bonding

• Quick results – Most cases can be completed same day

• Minimally invasive – Preserves natural tooth structure

• Natural appearance – Custom shading for a seamless blend

• Cost-effective – More affordable than porcelain veneers

• Comfortable – Often performed without the need for numbing

Things to Consider

While bonding is an excellent cosmetic option, it is not as long-lasting or stain-resistant as ceramic restorations such as porcelain veneers. Bonded teeth may require touch-ups over time and should be cared for with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.