Inlays & Onlays in Mooresville, NC – Strong, Precise Restorations for Damaged Teeth

What Are Inlays & Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom restorations made from porcelain or composite resin, used to repair decayed or damaged areas of a tooth. They’re fabricated in a dental lab for a precise fit, then bonded securely into place.

• Inlays fit within the cusps (the raised points) of a tooth, similar to a large filling
  
• Onlays cover one or more cusps and extend over the chewing surface, sometimes called a “partial crown.”
  

These restorations are ideal for molars and premolars and are a great alternative to tooth-colored fillings when more durability is needed.

Benefits of Inlays & Onlays

• Stronger and more durable than traditional fillings
  
• Preserve more of your natural tooth than a full crown
  
• Seamless fit and appearance with your smile
  
• Resistant to staining and wear
  
• Custom-crafted for long-term results
  
• Bonded to the tooth for added strength and protection
  

We often recommend inlays and onlays when a tooth has moderate decay, old worn-down fillings, or minor fractures.

When Are Inlays or Onlays Needed?

These restorations are most appropriate when:

• A cavity is too large for a filling, but a crown would remove too much healthy tooth
  
• A tooth has been cracked or worn from grinding
  
• An old amalgam filling has weakened or deteriorated
  
• A back tooth needs reinforcement, but not full coverage
  

We’ll assess your needs with a thorough exam and digital imaging, then help you decide whether an inlay, onlay, or crown is best for your case.

Our Inlay & Onlay Procedure

Step 1: Comprehensive Evaluation

During your visit, we’ll examine the damaged tooth using digital X-rays to assess the extent of decay or fracture.

Step 2: Tooth Preparation & Impressions

The affected area is cleaned and prepped, then a digital scan or impression is taken to design your custom inlay or onlay.

Step 3: Temporary Protection

We place a temporary restoration while your final piece is being fabricated by a trusted dental lab.

Step 4: Final Placement

At your follow-up visit, we bond the inlay or onlay in place and polish it for a perfect match to your tooth and bite.

The result is a strong, natural-looking restoration that blends beautifully with your smile, often lasting longer than large fillings.

Caring for Inlays & Onlays

With proper care, inlays and onlays can last 10–20 years or more. Here’s how to keep them in top shape:

• Brush and floss daily
  
• Avoid chewing hard objects (like ice or pens)
  
• Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth
  
• Keep up with regular dental cleanings and exams
  

Why Choose Davidson & Burr for Inlays & Onlays?

• Custom-fit restorations made with top-tier materials
  
• Advanced digital impressions and precise placement
  
• An aesthetic focus to blend seamlessly with your smile
  
• Full-service care including crowns, implants, and cosmetic treatments
  
• Experienced, compassionate care in a modern Mooresville office
  

We proudly serve patients from Mooresville, Davidson, Cornelius, and throughout the Lake Norman region.