What Are Inlays & Onlays?
Custom Restorations for Tooth Damage Too Large for a Filling but Too Small for a Crown
Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations used to repair moderately damaged or decayed teeth. Often called “indirect fillings,” they are designed outside the mouth and then bonded securely to the damaged area of the tooth. At Fortson Dentistry, we craft inlays and onlays from durable ceramic or porcelain materials that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
An inlay fits within the grooves of your tooth (similar to a filling), while an onlay covers one or more of the tooth’s cusps. These restorations preserve more of your natural tooth structure than a dental crown, making them a conservative and long-lasting solution for restoring strength and function.
Why Do I Need an Inlay or Onlay?
Preserve Your Natural Tooth While Restoring Strength and Function
If your tooth has decay or a crack too large for a filling but doesn’t require a full dental crown, an inlay or onlay provides the perfect middle-ground solution. These restorations restore chewing strength, seal out bacteria, and protect the tooth from further damage without having to remove healthy tooth structure.
Choosing an inlay or onlay not only strengthens your tooth but also enhances its appearance. The ceramic material is stain-resistant and custom-matched to your tooth color, making it a seamless, aesthetic solution for tooth repair in visible areas of your smile.
Why Choose Fortson Dentistry for Inlays & Onlays?
Precision Dental Restorations
Our team crafts each inlay and onlay to fit your smile perfectly, restoring both function and appearance with precision.
Experienced Restorative Team
Led by Dr. Cory Fortson, we deliver gentle, high-quality dental care that prioritizes your comfort and health.
Advanced Technology & Materials
We use modern dental techniques and strong, stain-resistant materials to create restorations that last.
Convenient Lathrup Village Location
Located at 27347 Southfield Rd, Lathrup Village, MI, our practice offers flexible appointment times and family-friendly care.
What Should You Expect from an Inlay or Onlay Procedure?
Frequently Asked Questions About Inlays & Onlays at Fortson Dentistry, Lathrup Village
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay fits within the grooves of your tooth, restoring the chewing surface without covering the cusps (outer edges). An onlay, sometimes called a partial crown, extends over one or more cusps, providing additional coverage for larger areas of damage. Both are custom-made to match your natural tooth color and restore strength and function.
How long do dental inlays and onlays last?
With proper care, inlays and onlays can last 10–15 years or longer. They are crafted from durable ceramic or porcelain materials that resist wear and staining. Regular dental check-ups at Fortson Dentistry in Lathrup Village, MI and excellent oral hygiene habits will help extend their lifespan.
Are inlays and onlays better than dental fillings?
Inlays and onlays are often recommended when a standard dental filling won’t provide enough support. They are stronger, more durable, and offer a more precise fit than large fillings. Plus, they better preserve your natural tooth structure compared to a full crown.
No, the procedure for an inlay or onlay is typically pain-free. We use local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the tooth preparation process. Afterward, you may experience mild sensitivity that usually fades within a few days.
Caring for an inlay or onlay is just like caring for your natural teeth. Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and schedule routine dental exams and cleanings at Fortson Dentistry. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens to prevent damage to your restoration.
Insurance & Flexible Financing at Fortson Dentistry
Cost shouldn’t keep you from a healthy smile. We welcome Delta Dental® and most major PPO plans and offer flexible financing through CareCredit® and Cherry™, so treatment fits your budget, not the other way around.
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Payment options through Cherry Technologies, Inc. are issued by Cross River Bank, member FDIC. See www.withcherry.com/terms for details.
Questions? Call us or book online and our team will help you every step of the way.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
- $150 -
New patients only. The cost of a New Patient Appointment will be $150. Cannot be combined with any other offer or insurance. Limited time offer. Call (248) 557-8120 for details.