Inlays & Onlays
When more than half of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged, a dentist will often use an inlay or onlay.
What are dental inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, which is similar to a dental filling is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay but extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.
Traditionally, gold has been the material of choice for inlays and onlays. In recent years, however, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and color, which can potentially match the natural color of your teeth.
How are inlays and onlays applied?
Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure. During the first visit, the filling being replaced or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. To ensure proper fit and bite, an impression of the tooth is made by the dentist, and sent to a lab for fabrication. The dentist will then apply a temporary sealant on the tooth and schedule the next appointment.
At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed. Dr. Malhotra will then make sure that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. If the fit is satisfactory, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.
Considerations for Inlays and Onlays
Traditional fillings can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50 percent. As an alternative, inlays and onlays, which are bonded directly onto the tooth using special high-strength resins, can actually increase the strength of a tooth by up to 75 percent. As a result, they can last from 10 to 30 years. In some cases, where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to merit an entire dental crown, onlays can provide a very good alternative.
Modern Smiles Dental Care
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I have dental PTSD and was very hesitant to believe the other 5 star reviews of this place. However, I was completely blown away. Do not judge a book by its cover. The parking lot in front of the office is not the most amazing place. I had already thought that I would not like the place from the outside. I was so wrong and surprised. My experience was AMAZING! Not only were the staff and Dr. Malhotra very friendly, they were human. I was treated like a human being, not some lab rat. And they were human - they wanted to talk to me and tell me about themselves. Also, everything that was being done to my mouth - was EXPLAINED! I could not believe how thorough and interesting it was to understand what was going on. There is a screen above the patient seat where one is shown all the Xrays, the imaging, and the diagrams of one's own mouth. I could not believe how exciting it was to see my teeth and have all my problems explained to me. How is it that all my previous dentists thought it would be a good idea to just give recommendations and keep all their patients in the dark!? I have never had such a great time at a dental office. Also, Dr. Malhotra could sense when I was in pain and made sure to adjust her instruments to make sure I was comfortable. I felt that she is a natural teacher and approaches patients like she would students. She teaches in a non-judgemental way that makes one feel calm. I cannot believe she helped me learn so much about my mouth. I am definitely going back to this place while I live in the area.
- Kara L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I initial went to Dr. Sarita for Modern Smiles introductory special. The examine and evaluation were completed extremely professionally and the condition of my teeth and gums discussed with me in detail. The cleaning was thorough and painless. I was so impressed that I immediately made an appointment for the filling of two cavities that were found. I would highly recommend Dr. Sarita for her professionalism, her skills at interacting with patients and the quality of her care. Her assistant Megan was also very professional and friendly.
- John A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Sarita is wonderful. She knows what she's doing and can explain it in a way that makes sense. She cares abut her patients. Her office is state-of-the-art. This was my first visit, and I'm going back for two-follow up procedures, something I had been putting off for years due to bad experiences with previous dentists.
- Judith C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr Sarita is amazing!! She explained kindly all the steps and process, she s very gentle, and let you in control. And I did not feel anything. I felt safe! Thank you !
- Anais G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
My mother visited Dr. Malhotra to resolve some mouth pain she had been experiencing. Dr. Malhotra identified and resolved the issues in one visit. My mother, herself a retired dentist, was very impressed with the quality of Dr. Malhotra's work. She was at ease and very relaxed under the care of Dr. Malhotra and her staff.
- Sandip B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
My first visit to Dr. Malhotra’s office was great! she was very nice and friendly. She and her staff made me feel very welcome and comfortable. Throughout the treatment she made sure I was comfortable, she was very gentle, I did not even know how fast my appointment was done. Watching Netflix on the chair TV was entertaining. Best experience I’ve had going to a dentist in a long time!
- Brent M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
AMAZING dentist and dental office! Dr. Malhotra is very professional and nice, the office was flexible with scheduling, genuinely concerned with their patients, office is vey modern and new, it has new dental instruments and machines too, it was just an all around great experience. Dr. Malhotra is very friendly and patient, she listened to all my concerns before giving me options. I will be back to see them for my treatment. I would definitely recommend to friends.
- Debbie R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great new state of the art office, Dr Malhotra is very caring and kind! She explained everything and was very gentle and always making sure that I was't in pain. Very attentive and excellent care. So glad found this place. Would highly recommend !!
- Lauren G