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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Inlays and Onlays in Wilsonville
Inlays and onlays repair back teeth that need more than a filling but less than a crown. Wilsonville patients can compare these options at our Port Dover office.
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Caring for Wilsonville patients at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for WilsonvilleBetween a filling and a crown
A middle-ground repair that keeps more natural tooth.
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations, often of porcelain, composite or gold, used to repair back teeth with moderate damage. An inlay fits within the grooves of the chewing surface, while an onlay also covers one or more cusps. They can be a conservative alternative to a crown when enough healthy tooth remains to support them.
Anyone from Wilsonville with a large old filling or a cracked cusp can ask about inlays and onlays at our Port Dover office. Because these restorations are custom-made, they usually involve more than one visit, so ask how the appointments would be arranged before committing.
When they fit
These restorations suit moderate damage.
Situations suited to inlays and onlays
Inlays and onlays are often considered when a filling would be too large to be durable, a cusp has fractured or an old filling is failing. Because they are made outside the mouth, they can be shaped precisely and may resist wear well. Onlays protect weakened cusps while preserving the rest of the tooth.
When a crown may be better
If most of the tooth is missing, the tooth has had root canal treatment and is very weak, or cracks extend widely, a crown may provide better protection. The dentist will examine the tooth and X-rays to determine whether an inlay, onlay or crown offers the most reliable outcome.
Materials
Material choice affects appearance and durability.
Tooth-coloured materials
Porcelain and composite inlays and onlays can be matched to the colour of your teeth and bonded in place, which may help strengthen the remaining tooth. Porcelain resists staining well. Composite can be easier to repair. The dentist will consider your bite and habits when recommending a material.
Gold restorations
Gold is very durable and gentle on opposing teeth, and it requires less tooth removal in some cases. Its colour is visible, which some people do not mind on back teeth. Ask about the pros and cons of each material for the tooth being restored.
The process
Precision fitting is key to success.
Preparing the tooth
After numbing the area, the dentist removes decay or old filling material and shapes the tooth. Impressions or scans are taken so the restoration can be made to fit the prepared tooth precisely. A temporary filling protects the tooth in the meantime. Avoid sticky foods on that side until the final restoration is placed.
Bonding the restoration
At the second visit, the temporary is removed and the inlay or onlay is tried in to check fit and contact with neighbouring teeth. Once confirmed, it is bonded or cemented. The bite is adjusted and the restoration polished. Mention any high spots or discomfort when biting.
Aftercare
Good habits help your restoration last.
The first few days
Mild sensitivity is common after treatment and usually settles. If the bite feels uneven, sensitivity increases or pain develops, contact the office for a check. Wait for numbness to fade before eating to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
Long-term care
Brush twice daily and clean between teeth, paying attention to the edges of the restoration. Avoid chewing ice and hard objects. If you grind your teeth, ask about a night guard. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor the restoration and catch problems early.
Planning your appointment
Planning an inlay or onlay from Wilsonville.
Contact our Port Dover office to book an assessment if you have a large filling or damaged back tooth. Ask how many appointments the restoration would require so you can plan your trips.
Mention any sensitivity, grinding habits or previous problems with fillings in the area so the material can be chosen thoughtfully.
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 tooth, while an onlay covers one or more cusps. Both are custom-made and bonded or cemented in place.
Are inlays and onlays stronger than fillings?
They are made outside the mouth and can be very durable, especially for larger repairs. Whether they are better than a filling depends on the size and location of the damage.
Why not just get a crown?
Inlays and onlays can preserve more natural tooth structure than a crown when enough healthy tooth remains. The dentist will recommend the option with the best long-term outlook.
How long do they last?
Inlays and onlays often last many years with good care. Longevity depends on the material, your bite and oral hygiene.
Will my tooth be sensitive afterward?
Some sensitivity is common and usually fades. Contact the office if sensitivity persists or worsens, or if the bite feels uneven.
Fillings and full-coverage crowns
General Dentistry →Composite Fillings →
Composite fillings repair decay with tooth-coloured material bonded to the tooth. Wilsonville patients can learn what to expect at our Port Dover dental office.
Dental Crowns →
A crown covers a weakened tooth to restore strength and shape. Wilsonville patients can learn about the crown process and aftercare at our Port Dover office.