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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Inlays and Onlays in Selkirk
When a cavity is too large for a filling but a crown seems excessive, an inlay or onlay may fit. Selkirk patients can compare options at our Port Dover office.
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Serving patients from Selkirk at our Port Dover office
See every service for Selkirk patientsA middle-ground restoration
Some damaged teeth need more than a filling but less than a crown.
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations, often of porcelain, composite or gold, that are bonded or cemented into a prepared tooth. An inlay sits within the cusps of a back tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps. They are typically used when decay or a broken filling has left a cavity too large for a direct filling.
Because they are made to fit outside the mouth, inlays and onlays usually involve two appointments. For Selkirk patients, the dentist at our Port Dover office can explain why one is being suggested over a filling or crown, and how the visits are likely to be spaced so trips can be planned.
When they are used
The size and location of damage guide the choice.
Situations that suit an inlay or onlay
An inlay or onlay may be suggested for a back tooth with a large cavity, a broken or failing large filling, or a cracked cusp, where enough healthy tooth remains that a full crown is not necessary. Because these restorations are made in a lab or milled from a block, they can be shaped precisely to restore the tooth’s chewing surface and contacts.
Comparing with fillings and crowns
A direct filling is placed in one visit but may not be as strong for large cavities. A crown covers the entire tooth and usually requires more tooth reduction. An onlay can protect weakened cusps while preserving more natural structure than a crown in suitable cases. The dentist will explain which option makes the most sense for that particular tooth.
Choosing a material
Each material has its own strengths.
Tooth-coloured materials
Porcelain and composite inlays and onlays can be matched to tooth colour and bonded to the tooth, which may help strengthen it. Porcelain resists staining and wears in a way similar to enamel, while composite may be easier to repair. The dentist will consider your bite, grinding habits and the location of the tooth when recommending one of these materials.
Gold restorations
Gold is very durable, gentle on opposing teeth and can be made with thin margins, though it is more visible. Some people choose gold for back teeth that take heavy biting forces. Ask the dentist to compare durability, appearance and preparation for each material so you can make a choice that matches your priorities for that tooth.
The process
Two visits are typical for a lab-made restoration.
Preparation and impressions
At the first visit, the tooth is numbed, decay and old filling material are removed and the tooth is shaped. Impressions or digital scans are taken and sent for fabrication. A temporary filling protects the tooth in the meantime. Avoid sticky or hard foods on that side, and contact the office if the temporary comes loose or the tooth becomes painful.
Bonding the restoration
At the second visit, the temporary is removed and the inlay or onlay is tried in. The dentist checks how it fits against the tooth and your bite, makes any adjustments, then bonds or cements it in place. Once the anaesthetic wears off, check that your bite feels even. If something feels high, call so it can be adjusted.
Care afterwards
Good habits help the restoration last.
Settling in
Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure for a short time after placement can occur and usually fades. Persistent pain, sensitivity that gets worse, or a bite that feels wrong should be reported. These issues can often be solved with a minor adjustment. Chew carefully for the first day until you are comfortable with how the restored tooth feels.
Protecting the restoration
Brush twice daily and clean between teeth, paying attention to the margins where the restoration meets the tooth, since decay can develop there. If you grind or clench, a night guard may help protect the restoration. Regular checkups allow the dentist to inspect the edges and catch wear or new decay early, before larger repairs are needed.
Planning your appointment
Planning the two visits from Selkirk.
Contact our Port Dover office to discuss the tooth and book the preparation appointment. Ask about the usual gap between visits so you can schedule the second trip in advance.
Mention any grinding habits, recent X-rays from another office and your preferences about appearance for the restored tooth.
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 fits within the grooves and cusps of a back tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps to protect them. Both are custom-made. The dentist will recommend one based on how much of the tooth is damaged or weakened.
Is an onlay better than a crown?
In suitable cases, an onlay can preserve more natural tooth structure than a crown while still protecting weakened cusps. A crown may be better when damage is extensive. The dentist will compare both for your specific tooth and explain the reasoning.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
Many last for years with good care, though lifespan depends on the material, your bite, grinding habits and oral hygiene. Regular checkups help monitor the margins. Ask the dentist about realistic expectations for the restoration being planned for you.
Will I need a temporary filling?
Usually, yes. A temporary protects the prepared tooth while the inlay or onlay is being made. Avoid sticky or hard foods on that side and call the office if it loosens, breaks or the tooth becomes sore before your second visit.
Can an inlay or onlay be tooth-coloured?
Yes. Porcelain and composite options can be matched to the shade of your teeth so the restoration blends in. Gold is another option for some situations. The dentist will discuss which material suits your bite and appearance preferences.
Compare restoration types
General Dentistry →Composite Fillings →
A tooth-coloured composite filling can repair many cavities. Selkirk residents can learn how fillings are placed and maintained at our Port Dover office.
Dental Crowns →
A crown covers a damaged or heavily filled tooth to protect it. Selkirk patients can learn when crowns are advised and how they are made in Port Dover.