We use custom inlays and onlays to protect worn or damaged teeth while preserving as much healthy enamel as possible. These custom-made restorations repair moderate tooth damage and offer a durable, long-lasting solution for patients who want a conservative alternative to a full dental crown.

At our Anchorage dental office, we often recommend inlays or onlays when a tooth has more damage than a filling can support, yet still has enough healthy enamel to avoid full coverage.

What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Dental inlays and onlays are sometimes referred to as indirect fillings because they are crafted in a dental laboratory before being bonded to the tooth. They restore shape, strength, and function using tooth-colored materials that blend seamlessly with your smile.

Dental Inlays – Repair Within the Tooth’s Grooves

A dental inlay fits within the natural grooves of the tooth and stays inside the cusps. Inlays work well when decay or damage is moderate but still contained to the center of the chewing surface.

  • Ideal for cavities too large for a standard filling
  • Crafted from strong, tooth-colored porcelain or composite
  • Designed to improve durability and stability

Dental Onlays – Coverage Over the Tooth’s Cusps

A dental onlay covers one or more cusps of the tooth and offers more protection than an inlay. Onlays are especially effective for teeth weakened by large fillings, cracks, or heavy wear.

  • Sometimes called partial crowns due to their coverage
  • Reinforce weakened enamel without removing healthy structure
  • Restore both function and appearance of the tooth

Materials and Aesthetics

Our inlays and onlays are typically made of porcelain or high-quality composite materials. These restorations are metal-free, blend beautifully with natural enamel, and are designed for long-term strength.

Inlays vs. Onlays vs. Crowns: What’s the Difference?

These restorative options offer varying levels of coverage, depending on the extent of the tooth’s damage. We help patients choose the most conservative and durable option during their exam.

Quick Comparison Overview

Here is a simple way to understand the differences:

  • Inlay: Fits inside the tooth cusps and restores internal chewing surfaces
  • Onlay: Covers one or more cusps for greater reinforcement
  • Crown: Covers the entire visible portion of the tooth

We recommend the appropriate treatment based on the amount of healthy enamel remaining, current symptoms, and the long-term stability of the tooth.

How We Decide Which Option You Need

We evaluate the tooth using digital imaging, photos, and a thorough exam to determine the best repair option. Dr. Kendall Skinner, DDS, and Dr. Michael Fox, DDS, employ a health-centered approach to determine whether a filling, inlay, onlay, or dental crown will yield the strongest long-term results.

Factors we consider include:

  • Extent of decay or fracture
  • Remaining healthy tooth structure
  • Integrity of old fillings
  • Bite alignment and chewing pressure
  • Your long-term oral health plan

Benefits of Tooth-Colored Inlays & Onlays

Inlays and onlays offer several advantages for patients seeking a durable, natural restoration.

Tooth-Conserving Alternative to Full Crowns

Because inlays and onlays remove less tooth structure than crowns, they help maintain long-term dental health. Preserving strong, natural enamel allows the tooth to stay healthier over time.

Durable, Natural-Looking Results

Porcelain and composite materials bond securely to the tooth and offer excellent durability. These restorations resist staining, maintain their appearance, and help reduce the risk of fractures around old fillings.

Comfortable, Customized Fit

Each inlay or onlay is designed specifically for your tooth. A custom fit leads to improved strength, function, and chewing comfort.

When We Recommend Inlays or Onlays

Inlays and onlays are often the right choice when a tooth needs more support than a filling can provide but does not require full coverage.

Common Situations Where Inlays or Onlays Help

Many patients benefit from inlays or onlays when they have:

  • Moderate decay
  • Large or failing fillings
  • Cracks or weakened tooth structure
  • Worn biting surfaces from grinding
  • Metal fillings they want to replace with tooth-colored options

Who May Not Be a Candidate

We may recommend a full crown instead if:

  • The tooth has extensive decay
  • A large portion of the tooth structure is missing
  • The tooth has already undergone root canal therapy

During your visit, we explain every option clearly so that you understand what will provide the best long-term outcome.

What To Expect During Your Inlay or Onlay Treatment

The process is smooth and comfortable from start to finish. We guide you through each step and make sure you feel at ease throughout your visit.

Step 1 – Comprehensive Exam and Digital Imaging

Your visit begins with an exam, digital X-rays, and photographs to determine the extent of damage. Our dental technology helps us identify cracks, worn areas, and failing fillings with precision.

Step 2 – Comfortable Tooth Preparation

We numb the tooth and gently remove decay or old filling material. For patients who feel anxious or have difficulty sitting through appointments, our team can discuss sedation dentistry options to help you stay relaxed.

Step 3 – Impressions and Temporary Protection

Once the tooth is prepared, we take precise impressions so the lab can create a restoration that fits your tooth perfectly. A temporary restoration may be placed to protect the tooth between visits.

Step 4 – Placement and Final Adjustments

At your second appointment, we remove the temporary and check the fit of the inlay or onlay. After confirming comfort and appearance, we bond the restoration securely and make final bite adjustments.

Aftercare and Recovery

Most patients return to normal activities quickly. Mild sensitivity may occur for a short time, but you can still care for the tooth just as you would any other: brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit us for regular exams.

Advanced Technology and Comfort for Lasting Results

We use digital tools and a comfort-focused approach to ensure your inlay or onlay fits beautifully and performs well for years.

Digital Imaging and Early Decay Detection

Advanced diagnostics enable us to identify issues early and provide conservative solutions whenever possible. This helps protect more of your natural tooth.
Precision Bite Analysis for Stable Results

Detailed bite evaluations help us ensure your new restoration fits comfortably and can withstand everyday chewing forces.

Sedation Options in a Calming Environment

Our office features a dedicated sedation suite for patients who require additional support during restorative procedures. We want every visit to feel comfortable and stress-free.

Why Choose Excellence in Dentistry for Inlays & Onlays in Anchorage?

Our patient-centered approach enables us to create restorations that not only look beautiful but also feel natural.

Experienced Restorative Dentists

Dr. Skinner and Dr. Fox bring decades of experience in restorative dentistry and take pride in delivering high-quality, long-lasting results.

Health-Centered, Conservative Philosophy

We focus on preserving your natural teeth whenever possible. Our approach emphasizes prevention, comfort, and long-term stability.

Comfort-Focused Environment

From private treatment rooms to a welcoming atmosphere, our goal is to help you feel comfortable and confident during every visit.

Comprehensive Care Under One Roof

Because we offer fillings, crowns, cosmetic services, sedation options, and more in one location, inlays and onlays fit seamlessly into any broader treatment plan you may need.

FAQs About Dental Inlays & Onlays

These common questions help patients feel confident and informed when considering inlays or onlays for tooth repair.

Most procedures feel completely comfortable thanks to local numbing. Some patients experience mild sensitivity afterward, which typically fades quickly.

With proper home care and regular checkups, many inlays and onlays can last for several years. Factors such as grinding and bite pressure can impact longevity.

Many insurance plans provide coverage for inlays and onlays when they are clinically necessary, though coverage varies. Our team can help you understand your benefits.

You can return to regular eating habits once the numbness wears off and your restoration feels comfortable. Avoid very hard foods for the first day.

Daily brushing, flossing, and routine cleanings are all you need. Avoid chewing ice or hard objects to protect your restoration.

Restore and Protect Your Tooth With Inlays & Onlays in Anchorage

If you need more than a filling but want to avoid a full crown, dental inlays and onlays offer a strong, natural-looking way to preserve your tooth. Our team is here to help you make the best choice for your smile.

Call us at (907) 349-0022 or use our online booking form to schedule your consultation and discover whether dental inlays or onlays in Anchorage are the right choice for you.