Dental Inlays and Onlays in Brookline, MA

Dental Inlays and Onlays

When a tooth needs more than a filling but less than a crown, dental inlays and onlays offer a precise, durable solution. You can restore strength, function, and a natural look while preserving as much of your healthy tooth as possible.

Cost

The cost of dental inlays and onlays depends on the size of the restoration, the materials used, and your insurance coverage.
Office Fees
Treatment Duration

The procedure typically takes one to two visits, depending on whether your restoration is placed in a single appointment or requires custom fabrication.
Schedule an Appointment
Pain Level

You can expect minimal discomfort, as the area is numbed during treatment, making the procedure comfortable and well-tolerated.
Sedation Dentistry

Dental inlays and onlays are custom restorations used to repair teeth that have mild to moderate decay or damage. Made from durable materials like porcelain or composite, they are created outside the mouth and bonded securely to the tooth. Inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth, while onlays extend over one or more cusps to provide added coverage. They help restore strength, improve function, and preserve more of the natural tooth structure than traditional crowns.

With proper care, inlays and onlays offer long-lasting protection and a natural-looking result, helping you maintain a healthy, confident smile for years to come.

01.

Process

We begin with a thorough exam and digital imaging to assess damage and determine whether an inlay or onlay is the best solution.
After gently numbing the area, we remove decay and prepare the tooth, taking precise impressions to ensure a comfortable, natural-looking fit.
Your custom restoration is crafted in a dental lab using durable materials that blend seamlessly with your smile while restoring strength and function.
At your final visit, we bond the restoration securely and check your comfort.

02.

Next Steps

After your inlay or onlay procedure, allow numbness to wear off before eating to avoid accidental biting or injury.
Mild sensitivity or soreness is normal for a few days; use recommended pain relief and avoid extremely hot or cold foods.
Maintain gentle brushing and flossing around the treated tooth, keeping the area clean while avoiding irritation of the surrounding gums.
Contact our office if discomfort persists, your bite feels uneven, or you notice swelling, as prompt care ensures healing.

FAQ

What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?

An inlay fits within the grooves of your tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps to cover a larger damaged area.
Why would you need an inlay or onlay instead of a filling?

You may need one when damage is too extensive for a filling but not severe enough to require a full dental crown.
How long do inlays and onlays last?

Inlays and onlays are durable restorations that can last 10 to 20 years with good care.

Preventative Dental Care

Restorative Dental Care

Cosmetic Dental Care

Specialty Services

Advanced Brookline Dental

Dental Inlays and Onlays

Cost

Treatment Duration

Pain Level