When a cavity or crack is too large for a filling—but a full crown would remove more healthy tooth than necessary—a custom inlay or onlay can restore strength and appearance while preserving enamel. At Blue Dental Clinic on the Upper East Side, we design precision restorations that blend seamlessly with your smile and bite.

Why choose us for inlays & onlays

• Conservative dentistry: Protect as much healthy tooth as possible.
• Specialist-level planning: Careful bite analysis and margin design for long-term durability.
• Natural esthetics: Lifelike ceramics matched to your tooth shade and translucency.
• Comfort & clarity: Gentle techniques, clear timelines, and insurance-friendly estimates.

What are inlays and onlays?

• Inlay: Restores the chewing surface within the cusps of a tooth—ideal for moderate decay or old, failing fillings.
• Onlay: Covers one or more cusps to reinforce a cracked or weakened area—often called a “partial crown.”

Both are custom-made restorations bonded to your tooth for excellent fit, strength, and seal.

Who is a good candidate?

• Moderate decay or fractures not suited to a standard filling
• Large, failing amalgam/composite filling with intact tooth structure to preserve
• Cracked cusp needing reinforcement (without full crown coverage)
• Desire for durable, esthetic results with conservative prep

Materials we use

• Lithium disilicate (e.max): Beautiful, strong ceramic—great for visible areas.
• Zirconia: High-strength ceramic for heavy bite forces and back teeth.
• Gold (select cases): Exceptionally long-lasting and gentle on opposing teeth.

We’ll recommend the best option based on tooth location, bite forces, esthetic goals, and habits (e.g., clenching).

The treatment process

1. Exam & planning: Imaging, bite evaluation, and material selection.
2. Tooth preparation: Conservative removal of decay/old material while shaping for optimal bonding.
3. Impressions or digital scan: For precise fabrication and margins.
4. Temporary (if needed): Protects the tooth while your restoration is made.
5. Bonding & finishing: We verify fit and contacts, bond the inlay/onlay, and fine-tune your bite.
6. Maintenance: Routine cleanings and good home care protect the restoration and surrounding tooth.

Benefits at a glance

• Preserves more healthy tooth than a full crown
• Excellent fit and seal; less risk of recurrent decay at margins
• Strengthens the tooth and distributes chewing forces
• Color-stable, stain-resistant ceramics for a natural look

Longevity & care

With consistent hygiene and regular checkups, inlays and onlays often last many years. Use a night guard if you clench or grind, and avoid chewing ice or very hard items.

Cost & insurance

Fees depend on material, tooth position, and case complexity. We’re insurance-friendly—our team checks benefits in advance, provides clear written estimates, and files claims on your behalf. Flexible payment options are available.

FAQs

Inlay/onlay vs. crown—how do I choose?
If enough healthy tooth remains, an inlay or onlay offers strong, conservative repair. A crown is best when the tooth needs full coverage for strength.

Will it look natural?
Yes. We custom-match shade and translucency so the restoration blends with surrounding enamel.

Is the procedure painful?
You’ll be thoroughly numbed. Expect minimal post-visit sensitivity that typically resolves quickly.

Can these be used after a root canal?
Often an onlay or crown is recommended for root-canal-treated teeth; we’ll advise based on remaining tooth structure.



Ready to repair and preserve your tooth?

Book an inlay/onlay consultation at our Upper East Side office. We’ll review your options, outline costs and timelines, and craft a restoration that feels natural—and lasts.