Do you find that when you’re learning about restorative care and you need some serious help for your tooth, you’re overwhelmed by the different treatment options? Is this even more apparent when we mention we will provide you with an inlay or an onlay but you cannot figure out why (or what they are)? Allow your Corona dentist to explain more regarding inlays, onlays, fillings, and everything in between (and rest easy, your healthy smile is on its way).

Questions and Answers

Question: Isn’t it true that inlays and onlays can both replace partial dental tissue loss? If so, aren’t they the same as a dental filling?

Answer: Your Corona dentist explains that yes, these treatments do all address partial tissue loss. However, a filling is generally placed for a small amount of missing tissue due to a mild to moderate cavity. For a severe cavity or some other serious tissue loss, we may place an inlay or onlay when a full crown is not yet necessary.

Question: So, what’s the difference between an inlay and an onlay?

Answer: Both are puzzle-piece type restorations that are pre-formed. An inlay replaces tissue that’s been lost in between your tooth’s cusps. As for those cusps, if they become damaged (along with tissue on the side of your tooth), we will suggest an onlay.

Question: Is the inlay or onlay going to be completely obvious once it’s placed? I know you offer tooth-colored fillings but is this restoration tooth-colored, too?

Answer: Your instincts are correct. Your Corona dentist suggests you feel optimistic about these treatments, as they will all leave your tooth looking natural, healthy, and whole.

Riverside Dental Group and Dental Associate Offices Serves a Community Near You!

Our dentists look forward to caring for you and every member of your family with a comprehensive selection of services. We will maintain and improve your oral health with a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, restorative, implant, and emergency dentistry techniques. We also specialize in endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, and orthodontics, serving patients from Riverside, Temecula, Moreno Valley, Corona, and all surrounding California communities. To schedule an appointment, contact one of the following locations nearest to you:

Riverside Dental Group at Magnolia in Riverside, CA at (951) 689-5031.

Dental Associates of Moreno Valley in Moreno Valley, CA at (951) 697-6800.

Riverside Dental Group at Woodcrest in Riverside, CA at (951) 776-9001.

Oasis Family Dental in Temecula, CA at (951) 695-2290.

Dental Associates of Riverside in Riverside, CA at  (951) 369-1001.

Dental Associates of Corona in Corona, CA at (951) 273-9580.