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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Inlays and Onlays in Turkey Point
Inlays and onlays restore larger cavities while keeping more natural tooth than a crown. Turkey Point patients can learn when they fit best and how they are placed.
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Caring for Turkey Point patients at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for Turkey PointBetween a filling and a crown
An inlay or onlay can rebuild a damaged tooth while preserving healthy structure.
When a cavity or fracture is too large for a standard filling but the tooth still has plenty of healthy structure, an inlay or onlay may be a good middle option. An inlay fits within the grooves of the chewing surface, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps. Both are custom-made and bonded into place.
If you have been told a back tooth needs more than a filling, Turkey Point patients can discuss inlays and onlays at our Port Dover office. The dentist will explain whether one suits your tooth or whether another option is better.
When they are used
The extent of the damage decides which restoration fits best.
Inlays for central damage
An inlay is used when decay or an old filling sits within the centre of the chewing surface, without extending to the cusps. It fills the space precisely and can be stronger than a large direct filling. It may also replace an older filling that has worn or cracked around the edges.
Onlays for cusp involvement
An onlay covers one or more cusps that are weakened or broken. It protects the tooth from fracturing while preserving more natural structure than a full crown. The dentist will consider the size of the damage, your bite and any grinding when deciding between an onlay and a crown.
Weighing the options
Each restoration has trade-offs worth discussing.
Versus fillings
Large direct fillings can usually be placed in a single visit, but they may shrink slightly or wear faster under heavy forces. Inlays are made outside the mouth and bonded in, which can result in a precise fit and good durability. The dentist will explain whether a filling would be reasonable in your case.
Versus crowns
Crowns cover the entire tooth and are often needed when a tooth is very weak or has had root canal treatment. Onlays remove less healthy tooth, which some people prefer. Ask the dentist how each option might affect the tooth long term, how many visits it takes and what maintenance it needs.
The process
Most inlays and onlays involve 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 to create the restoration. A temporary filling protects the tooth in the meantime. Avoid sticky foods and chewing hard items on that side until the final restoration is placed.
Bonding the final restoration
At the second visit, the temporary is removed, the inlay or onlay is tried in and the fit, contact and bite are checked. Once everything is right, it is bonded to the tooth. The dentist polishes the edges and checks your bite again. Mention any high spots or discomfort before you leave.
Aftercare
Good care helps the restoration last.
The first few days
Some sensitivity to temperature or pressure can occur briefly after placement. It usually settles within days. If the bite feels uneven or discomfort worsens, call the office for an adjustment. Wait until any numbness wears off before eating, to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
Long-term protection
Brush and floss carefully around the edges where the restoration meets the tooth. Limit frequent sugary snacks. If you grind or clench, ask about a night guard. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor the restoration and spot any wear or decay at the margins early.
Planning your appointment
Planning a restoration from Turkey Point
Contact our Port Dover office to discuss whether an inlay or onlay could suit your tooth. Mention which tooth is affected and whether another dentist has recommended treatment.
If you are a seasonal resident, consider timing so both appointments can be completed before you leave the area.
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.
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
They can be more durable for larger cavities, but they involve more visits. For smaller cavities, a filling may be perfectly adequate. The dentist will advise.
What materials are used?
Ceramic and composite are common for a tooth-coloured look, and gold is sometimes used for durability. The dentist will explain which suits your tooth.
How long do they last?
With good care, inlays and onlays can last many years. Lifespan depends on material, bite forces and oral hygiene.
Is the procedure painful?
The tooth is numbed during preparation. Mild sensitivity afterward is common and usually short-lived.
Why not just get a crown?
An onlay preserves more of your natural tooth when enough healthy structure remains. A crown may be needed when the tooth is more severely weakened.
Compare restorations
General Dentistry →Composite Fillings →
Composite fillings repair decay with tooth-coloured material. Turkey Point patients can learn how cavities are assessed, filled and protected at our Port Dover office.
Dental Crowns →
A crown covers and strengthens a weakened tooth. Turkey Point patients can learn when a crown is advised, how it is made and how to care for it, all in Port Dover.