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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Inlays and Onlays in Normandale
Inlays and onlays repair damaged back teeth with less reduction than a crown. Normandale patients can learn when they fit and how they are placed in Port Dover.
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Caring for Normandale residents and seasonal visitors at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for NormandaleBetween a filling and a crown
When a filling is too small and a crown too much, an inlay or onlay may fit.
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations made outside the mouth, usually from ceramic, composite or gold, and bonded into a prepared tooth. An inlay fits within the cusps of a back tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps. They can restore moderate damage while preserving more natural tooth than a full crown.
If you are in Normandale and have a back tooth with a large old filling, a fracture or moderate decay, our Port Dover dentist can assess whether an inlay or onlay is suitable. We will compare it with fillings and crowns so you understand the options.
When they help
These restorations fill a gap between simpler and more extensive options.
Moderate damage to back teeth
Inlays and onlays are often considered for back teeth with decay or fractures that are too large for a direct filling but where enough healthy tooth remains to avoid a crown. They can also replace old fillings that have failed or broken. The dentist will look at the size and location of damage.
Comparing with fillings and crowns
A direct filling is placed in one visit and suits smaller cavities. A crown covers the entire tooth and may be needed for extensive damage or after root canal treatment. An onlay can protect weakened cusps while removing less tooth than a crown. The dentist will explain the trade-offs.
Materials
Material choice affects appearance and durability.
Ceramic and composite
Ceramic and composite inlays and onlays are tooth-coloured and can blend well with surrounding teeth. Ceramic is generally stain-resistant and durable. Composite may be easier to repair. The dentist will consider your bite, grinding habits and appearance preferences when recommending a material.
Gold
Gold is highly durable and gentle on opposing teeth, and it may require less tooth reduction in some cases. Its colour is visible, so it is often chosen for back teeth where appearance is less of a concern. The dentist can explain the advantages and limits of each option.
Treatment
Placement usually involves two appointments.
Preparing the tooth
After numbing, the dentist removes decay or old filling material and shapes the tooth. Impressions or a scan are taken, and a temporary restoration protects the tooth while the inlay or onlay is made. Avoid sticky or hard foods on the temporary to prevent it from loosening.
Bonding the restoration
At the second visit, the temporary is removed and the final restoration is tried in. The dentist checks fit, contacts and bite before bonding it into place. Adjustments ensure it feels comfortable when you chew. You can ask about care and any restrictions before leaving.
Aftercare
Good care helps inlays and onlays stay sound.
The first few days
Some sensitivity to temperature or pressure can occur after placement and usually settles. If the bite feels high, pain increases or sensitivity lingers, contact the office so the restoration can be checked. Avoid chewing very hard foods on the tooth until it feels completely normal.
Making it last
Brush and clean between teeth daily, paying attention to the margins where the restoration meets the tooth. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor the edges for decay or wear. If you grind your teeth, a night guard may help protect the restoration and surrounding teeth.
Planning your appointment
Restoring a back tooth from Normandale
Call our Port Dover office to book an assessment of the tooth. Mention whether it is painful, sensitive or has a broken filling so the team can allow enough time.
If you have a temporary restoration that loosens before your second visit, call the office for advice.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Inlay and onlay questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay sits within the cusps of a back tooth, while an onlay covers one or more cusps. Both are custom-made and bonded into the prepared tooth.
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
They can be more durable for moderate damage, but they require more appointments. Small cavities are often well served by direct fillings. The dentist will recommend what suits your tooth.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
Lifespan varies with material, bite and care. Many last for years. Regular checkups help monitor the margins and catch problems early.
Will my tooth be sensitive afterward?
Some sensitivity is common and usually fades. If it worsens or persists, contact the office so the restoration and bite can be checked.
Can an onlay replace the need for a crown?
In some cases, an onlay protects weakened cusps while preserving more natural tooth. Extensive damage may still require a crown. The dentist will explain the options.
Other ways to restore teeth
General Dentistry →Composite Fillings →
Composite fillings repair decay with a tooth-coloured material. Normandale patients can learn when they suit, how they are placed and how to care for them.
Dental Crowns →
A crown covers a weakened tooth to restore strength and shape. Normandale patients can learn when crowns are advised and what fitting involves at our Port Dover office.