Inlays & Onlays in Lake Forest, IL

An inlay is a custom restoration that fits within the grooves between a tooth's cusps. An onlay also fits into the tooth but extends over one or more cusps on the chewing surface. Both are indirect restorations: they are made outside the mouth and then bonded or cemented to the prepared tooth. Available materials can include tooth-colored ceramic or composite, along with other options selected for the tooth and clinical needs.

They may be considered when decay, a failing filling, or other damage is too extensive for a simple filling but does not require complete coverage. Our doctors consider the remaining tooth structure, cracks, bite forces, pulp and gum health, appearance goals, and your ability to keep the area clean before recommending an approach.

• Inlay: generally stays within the cusps.
• Onlay: replaces or covers one or more cusps.
• Material and shade are selected for the tooth and clinical needs.
• A complete evaluation is needed before deciding whether either restoration is appropriate.

An inlay or onlay can preserve more of the remaining tooth than a restoration designed to cover the entire tooth. These restorations can chip, loosen, wear, stain at their margins, or develop recurrent decay; clenching, grinding, an unstable bite, poor plaque control, or a crack can affect the result, and repair or replacement may eventually be needed. Our doctors will discuss whether a filling, crown, root canal with a subsequent restoration, or extraction and replacement is more appropriate. Tell us about pain, temperature sensitivity, a cracked or lost filling, grinding, medical conditions, allergies, and medications. Call Ross & Durrett Family Dental at (847) 234-8608 to schedule an evaluation in Lake Forest.

• Possible advantages: a custom fit, tooth-colored options, and targeted coverage for the tooth.
• Possible concerns: sensitivity, bite adjustment, fracture, leakage, recurrent decay, or failure.
• Your diagnosis and preferences should guide the final recommendation.