Inlays and Onlays in Tustin, CA
More Than a Filling, Less Than a Crown
Inlays and onlays are custom porcelain restorations for teeth with damage that is too large for a filling but not bad enough to need a full crown. They keep more of your natural tooth.
- Custom porcelain, matched to your tooth
- Keeps more natural tooth than a crown
- Most PPO plans pay part of the cost
- Made to fit your tooth precisely
- Tooth-colored and long-lasting
Example only. Your rate and monthly payment depend on approval. Your exact cost is confirmed after your exam.
What are inlays and onlays?
An inlay fills a cavity or damaged area within the chewing surface of a back tooth. An onlay is larger and covers one or more of the tooth's cusps (the raised points).
Both are made to fit your tooth precisely and bonded in place. They are strong, look natural and preserve more healthy tooth structure than a crown.
When is an inlay or onlay a good choice?
- A cavity or crack too large for a regular filling
- An old, large filling that needs replacing. Read How Long Do Tooth-Colored Fillings Last?
- A broken cusp on a back tooth
- When you want to keep as much natural tooth as possible
What to expect
Exam
We check the tooth and decide whether a filling, inlay, onlay or crown is best.
Preparation
The tooth is numbed, the damaged area is removed and impressions or a scan are taken.
Made in a lab
Your inlay or onlay is custom-made in a dental lab while you wear a temporary.
Bonding
Your custom inlay or onlay is checked for fit and bite, then bonded in place.
Cost, Insurance and Payments
An inlay or onlay is about $20 to $50 a month per tooth with financing. Many PPO plans pay part of an inlay or onlay. We check your benefits and explain your cost before treatment, and monthly payments are available.
Related guides
Common Questions
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With good care and regular checkups, porcelain inlays and onlays can last many years.
Is an onlay better than a crown?
If enough healthy tooth remains, an onlay keeps more of it. If the tooth is badly damaged, a crown gives more protection. We'll recommend the best option.
Do inlays and onlays look natural?
Yes. They are made from tooth-colored porcelain matched to your tooth.
Need a tooth restored?
Book a visit and we'll recommend the most conservative option. Larwin Square Dentistry, 604 E 1st St, Tustin. Serving Irvine, City of Orange, Santa Ana and the rest of Orange County.