Inlays & Onlays in Tuscaloosa, AL
When a filling isn’t enough—but a crown would be too much—inlays and onlays offer the perfect middle ground. At Rhodes & Rhodes Family Dentistry, we provide custom inlays and onlays in Tuscaloosa to repair moderately damaged or decayed teeth while preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible.
These durable, long-lasting restorations blend seamlessly into your smile and help prevent future damage—without the need for full coverage.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom restorations used to repair a tooth that has more damage than a filling can support, but not enough to require a full dental crown.
- Inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth (between the cusps) and are used when damage is confined to the center of the tooth.
- Onlays cover a larger area and extend over one or more cusps of the tooth, essentially providing partial crown coverage.
Both are crafted from durable ceramic or porcelain for a strong, natural look that supports long-term function.
Why Choose Inlays or Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are an excellent choice when:
- A tooth has moderate decay or an old, failing filling
- You want a more conservative alternative to a crown
- You need extra strength for chewing surfaces, especially molars
- A cracked tooth needs reinforcement without full coverage
- You want to preserve as much natural tooth as possible
We custom-match the material to your surrounding teeth, so the result is both functional and aesthetically seamless.
The Treatment Process
Getting an inlay or onlay typically requires two visits:
1. Preparation
We remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and take digital impressions. A temporary restoration is placed to protect your tooth.
2. Custom Restoration & Placement
Your inlay or onlay is created at a dental lab to match the exact size, shape, and color of your natural tooth. Once ready, we bond it securely and polish it for a smooth finish.
The final result feels natural, looks great, and helps protect the tooth from future fractures or decay.
How Are Inlays and Onlays Different from Fillings and Crowns?
We’ll help you decide which treatment is right for you based on the size and location of the damage.
Caring for Your Restoration
With proper oral hygiene, inlays and onlays can last 10–15 years or more. Maintain your restoration with:
- Daily brushing and flossing
- Routine dental cleanings and exams
- Avoiding extremely hard foods (like ice or hard candy)
- Wearing a nightguard if you clench or grind
We’ll monitor your inlays or onlays at each visit to ensure they continue to function and look their best.
Serving Tuscaloosa and Nearby Communities
Our team provides restorative treatments, including inlays and onlays, for patients across:
- Tuscaloosa
- Northport
- Cottondale
- Brookwood
- Holt
- Vance
- Moundville
- Coker
If you’re searching for conservative tooth repair near me, we’re here to help with a balanced, minimally invasive approach.
Restore Strength Without Sacrificing Your Tooth
Inlays and onlays let you repair damage, preserve healthy structure, and avoid full coverage when it’s not necessary. It’s smart, conservative dentistry designed around your long-term health and confidence.
FAQs
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Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
They’re better for moderate damage because they offer more strength and coverage than a filling without the need for a full crown.
Will the restoration match my tooth color?
Yes. We use high-quality porcelain or ceramic that’s custom-shaded to blend with your natural enamel.
Is the procedure painful?
No. We numb the area completely before treatment. Most patients experience minimal to no discomfort during or after the procedure.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With good care, they can last 10–15 years or longer—often longer than traditional fillings.
Do I need a crown instead?
Only if the tooth is too weak or damaged for a partial restoration. If we can preserve more of your natural tooth with an inlay or onlay, we will.
Your Tooth Deserves a Smarter Fix
Don’t settle for unnecessary drilling or oversized restorations. Inlays and onlays offer a balanced, long-lasting solution when your tooth needs more than a filling—but less than a crown.