Inlays & Onlays in Lawrence, KS

What Are Inlays & Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations used to repair decayed or damaged teeth. They are stronger than fillings but less invasive than crowns, making them a perfect middle-ground treatment.

• Dental Inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth, much like a large filling, and are used when decay is confined to the center of the tooth.
• Dental Onlays cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps (points), and are used when damage extends to the chewing surface but not enough to require a full crown.

Both are crafted from high-quality materials such as porcelain or ceramic to match the color of your natural tooth.

When Are Inlays or Onlays Needed?

You may be a candidate for an inlay or onlay if:

• A cavity is too large for a filling
• Your tooth is weakened but doesn’t need a full crown
• You have an old filling that needs replacement
• You want a long-lasting, tooth-colored restoration
• You’re experiencing cracking or wear on a molar or premolar

These restorations are especially useful for molars and back teeth that endure high chewing pressure.

Benefits of Porcelain and Ceramic Inlays & Onlays

• Conservative – Preserves more natural tooth than a crown
• Durable – Stronger and longer-lasting than traditional fillings
• Esthetic – Blends with natural tooth color for a seamless appearance
• Precise Fit – Custom-designed for comfort and function
• Protective – Helps prevent further decay or cracking

We often use inlays and onlays as part of restorative dentistry to provide a conservative yet effective solution for tooth damage.

Our Inlay & Onlay Process

At Jayhawk Dental, we use advanced digital technology and precise imaging to ensure a perfect fit for every restoration.

Step 1: Examination & Imaging

We evaluate your tooth with visual inspection and digital X-rays to assess the extent of damage.

Step 2: Tooth Preparation

The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is gently removed and the area is cleaned.

Step 3: Impression or Scan

We take a detailed impression or digital scan of your tooth to fabricate the custom inlay or onlay.

Step 4: Temporary Restoration (if needed)

While your restoration is being crafted, a temporary material may be placed to protect the tooth.

Step 5: Final Placement

Once ready, the inlay or onlay is bonded into place, polished, and adjusted for a perfect fit.

Looking for same-day restoration? For qualifying cases, we may use our CEREC same-day technology to deliver your inlay or onlay in one visit.