Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and Onlays in Coeur d Alene, ID
At Scholes Family Dental, we provide high quality dental inlays and dental onlays in Coeur d’Alene to help patients restore and protect their smiles with conservative, long-lasting care. Dr. Michael Scholes takes a patient-first approach built on education, open communication, and genuine partnership. Our goal is to help you understand your options and choose the restoration that supports your long-term oral health. If you are looking for trusted solutions such as inlay and onlay restoration, or reliable dental treatment options, we invite you to schedule a visit and experience dentistry done right.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays and How Do They Work?
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations used to repair teeth that have damage too extensive for a filling but do not require a full crown. An inlay for teeth fits within the grooves of the chewing surface, while an onlay for teeth extends to cover one or more cusps. At Scholes Family Dental, these restorations are crafted from strong materials such as ceramic, porcelain, or composite that blend naturally with your smile. They are precisely designed to fit securely into the prepared area, restoring function, strength, and appearance while preserving more of your natural tooth structure.
How Do I Know If I Need an Inlay or Onlay Instead of a Filling?
You may need an inlay or onlay when a tooth has decay, a fracture, or an old filling that has become too large or unstable for a simple repair. Dr. Scholes uses advanced digital tools, including an intraoral scanner and high resolution imaging, to determine whether a dental onlay or dental inlay is the most appropriate choice. These restorations allow us to conserve more of your natural tooth and avoid unnecessary removal of healthy enamel, which supports long term stability and comfort.
What Is the Difference Between Inlays, Onlays, and Dental Crowns?
Each restoration protects the tooth in a different way.
- An inlay restores the chewing surface within the grooves.
- An onlay covers one or more cusps to reinforce the tooth’s outer structure.
- A dental crown covers the entire tooth when damage is extensive.
Inlays and onlays are ideal when damage is moderate, while a crown is used when a tooth needs full coverage for lasting protection. Dr. Scholes will help you choose the option that provides the right balance of preservation and durability.
What Are the Benefits of Inlays and Onlays?
Choosing inlays and onlays offers several important advantages:
- They strengthen weakened teeth by supporting areas affected by decay or damage.
- They provide long lasting durability, especially when crafted from materials like a ceramic onlay or porcelain inlay.
- They blend with your natural enamel for a seamless appearance.
- They are custom designed using digital scanning to ensure a precise fit.
- They preserve more natural tooth structure compared to full coverage crowns.
These benefits make inlays and onlays a powerful and conservative solution for restoring oral health.
Experience Dentistry Done Right
A patient-first experience in Coeur d’Alene.
How Long Does It Take to Place an Inlay or Onlay?
Placing an inlay or onlay typically involves two visits. During the first visit, we remove decay or the failing restoration, clean the area, and take digital impressions. A temporary restoration is placed to protect your tooth. At the second visit, your custom inlay onlay is carefully bonded into place, restoring strength and function. Our use of digital technology helps streamline the process and enhances comfort throughout each step of treatment.
Do Inlays and Onlays Strengthen a Damaged Tooth?
Yes. Inlays and onlays are designed to reinforce weakened areas of the tooth. Onlays support the chewing surface by covering damaged cusps, while inlays stabilize the internal structure. Because these restorations are bonded directly to the tooth, they help prevent future fractures and often last longer than traditional fillings.
Can Old Fillings Be Replaced With Inlays or Onlays?
Many older fillings can be replaced with inlays or onlays, especially if they are cracked, worn, or no longer sealing properly. Scholes Family Dental uses digital imaging to evaluate whether an existing restoration can be upgraded to a porcelain onlay, composite inlay, or similar option. Replacing an aging filling with a stronger restoration can protect the tooth and reduce the risk of further damage.
How Long Do Dental Inlays and Onlays Last?
With proper care, dental inlays and onlays can last many years. Materials such as ceramic, composite, or porcelain are designed for durability and resistance to wear. Their lifespan improves with good brushing and flossing habits, along with regular preventive visits. Dr. Scholes will monitor your restorations over time to ensure they continue to perform at their best.
How Do I Care for a Tooth With an Inlay or Onlay?
Caring for an inlay or onlay is similar to caring for any healthy tooth.
- Brush and floss daily.
- Avoid very hard foods for the first day or two after placement.
- Call us if you notice sensitivity or discomfort.
- Maintain routine dental checkups to protect both the restoration and surrounding teeth.
This routine supports lasting success and helps prevent new decay around the restored area.
How Much Do Inlays and Onlays Cost in Coeur d Alene, ID?
The cost of inlays and onlays depends on the size of the restoration, the type of material used, and the specific needs of the tooth. Scholes Family Dental accepts most dental insurance plans and encourages patients to call for verification. Additional payment options include CareCredit, credit cards, cash, and checks. Our team is committed to transparency and welcomes financial questions so patients can make confident, informed decisions.
The Inlay and Onlay Process at Scholes Family Dental
Your treatment begins with a thorough consultation, where Dr. Scholes evaluates your tooth using digital x rays, panoramic imaging, and our intraoral scanner. After confirming the best option, the tooth is prepared, impressions are taken, and a temporary restoration is placed. Once your custom overlay dental restoration or ceramic inlay is ready, we bond it securely and ensure your bite feels comfortable. Follow up visits help us monitor your progress and maintain long term dental health.
Why Choose Scholes Family Dental for Inlays and Onlays in Coeur d Alene?
Patients choose Scholes Family Dental because we combine experience, modern technology, and a compassionate approach to care. Dr. Scholes has provided cosmetic dentistry to families in Coeur d’Alene since 2008 and is dedicated to education, transparency, and conservative treatment planning. Our practice uses high-quality materials and advanced tools to deliver personalized results. With a strong reputation for trust and consistent care, we make every visit comfortable and supportive.
Schedule an Appointment for Inlays and Onlays in Coeur d Alene
If you are considering dental inlays and onlays, we are here to help you restore your smile with confidence. Contact Scholes Family Dental today to schedule your inlay/onlay consultation or use our online form to request an appointment. We look forward to welcoming you and providing care that reflects our mission of positivity, gratitude, and community-centered service.