Restore Your Smile with Custom Inlays and Onlays in La Jolla
At La Jolla Dental Wellness Center, we offer inlays and onlays as a conservative and durable solution to restore damaged or decayed teeth while preserving their natural structure. These custom restorations provide a stronger, longer-lasting alternative to traditional fillings and a less invasive option compared to dental crowns.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a filling but does not require a full crown. They are crafted from high-quality porcelain, composite resin, or gold, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing restoration.
- Inlays: Used to repair damage within the cusps (top edges) of a tooth.
- Onlays: Extend over one or more cusps, offering broader coverage for more extensive damage.
Why Choose Inlays and Onlays Over Fillings or Crowns?
Unlike traditional fillings that weaken the tooth structure over time, inlays and onlays are bonded directly to the tooth, reinforcing its strength and preventing future fractures. They also require less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to crowns, making them a more conservative and long-lasting solution.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
- ~ Preserve More of Your Natural Tooth – Less enamel removal compared to crowns.
- ~ Stronger and More Durable – Inlays and onlays last longer than traditional fillings.
- ~ Natural Aesthetic – Porcelain inlays and onlays blend seamlessly with your smile.
- ~ Better Fit and Protection – Custom-made to provide a precise, comfortable fit.
- ~ Resist Staining – Unlike composite fillings, porcelain inlays and onlays do not stain over time.
- ~ Minimize Bacteria and Decay – The precise fit helps prevent bacteria buildup and future cavities.
The Inlay and Onlay Procedure
At La Jolla Dental Wellness Center, we ensure a comfortable and seamless experience when restoring your smile with inlays or onlays. Here’s what to expect:
Comprehensive Examination
We assess your tooth’s condition using advanced digital imaging to determine whether an inlay or onlay is the best option.
Tooth Preparation
The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is removed, leaving as much healthy tooth structure intact as possible.
Digital Impressions
We take precise digital impressions to create a custom-fit restoration.
Custom Fabrication
Your inlay or onlay is carefully crafted in a dental lab from high-quality porcelain, composite, or gold.
Final Placement and Bonding
Once ready, your inlay or onlay is permanently bonded to your tooth, polished, and adjusted for a perfect fit.
Are Inlays and Onlays Right for You?
You may be a good candidate for inlays and onlays if you have:
- ~ A large cavity that cannot be treated with a simple filling.
- ~ A fractured or broken tooth that still has enough healthy structure to avoid a crown.
- ~ Old metal fillings that need replacement.
- ~ Weakened enamel requiring added reinforcement.
Inlays vs. Onlays vs. Fillings vs. Crowns
| Feature | Inlays | Onlays | Fillings | Crowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Coverage |
Inside cusps |
Extends over cusps |
Small cavities |
Entire tooth |
|
Tooth Preservation |
High |
High |
Moderate |
Low |
|
Durability |
10-30 years |
10-30 years |
5-10 years |
10-15 years |
|
Aesthetics |
Natural-looking |
Natural-looking |
May discolor |
Natural-looking |
How to Care for Inlays and Onlays
Maintaining your restoration is simple with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits:
- ~ Brush and floss daily to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- ~ Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens to prevent chipping.
- ~ Limit stain-causing foods and drinks to keep your smile bright.
- ~ Schedule regular dental check-ups for professional cleanings and exams.
Why Choose La Jolla Dental Wellness Center?
At La Jolla Dental Wellness Center, we are committed to providing top-quality cosmetic and restorative dentistry in a comfortable, patient-centered environment. Here’s what sets us apart:
Expert Cosmetic and Restorative Care
Our skilled dentists use the latest techniques for superior results.
Advanced Technology
We utilize digital imaging and precise fabrication methods for the best fit.
Comfort−First Approach
Your experience matters to us; we ensure pain-free procedures and a relaxing atmosphere.
Community Engagement
As active members of La Jolla, we participate in local events and dental health education programs.
Meet Our
La Jolla Dentists
Dr. Bo Ah Kim
Dr. Bo Ah Kim pursued her passion for dentistry at Columbia University, College of Dental Medicine in New York City, earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2007. Her training in general dentistry equips her with the skills to perform a broad range of procedures from basic fillings and crowns to complex full mouth reconstructions and TMJ Botox injections. Dr. Kim is renowned for her dedication to patient care, making communication and comfort the cornerstones of her practice.
Dr. Hyung Jin Bae
Accreditations
Wonderful Words from our Patients
~ Gabrielle Breton Leduc
~ Alice Hou
~ Gabrielle Breton Leduc
Comprehensive
Dental Services
Innovator in Periodontics and Dental Implantology
At La Jolla Dental Wellness, Dr. Hyung Jin Bae is a board-certified periodontist specializing in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease (also known as periodontal disease). Our periodontic treatments include deep cleanings, bone grafts, and dental implant placement. Get exceptional results with scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
You get
- ~ In-Depth Consultation
- ~ 3D Imaging
- ~ Local anesthetic for comfort
- ~ Reducing the risk of tooth loss
Simple Payment Options
Insurance Coverage
Visit La Jolla Dental Wellness
Hours
Monday – Tuesday 9am-5pm
Wednesday – CLOSED
Thursday – Friday 9am-5pm
Frequently Asked Questions About Inlays and Onlays
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With proper care, they can last 10 to 30 years, often outlasting traditional fillings.
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
Yes, they are stronger, more durable, and provide a better fit, reducing the risk of future decay.
Do inlays and onlays look natural?
Absolutely! Porcelain inlays and onlays are designed to match your natural tooth color for a seamless appearance.
Is the procedure painful?
No, we use local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable and pain-free experience.
Can I replace my metal fillings with inlays or onlays?
Yes! Many patients opt to replace old amalgam fillings with more aesthetic and durable inlays or onlays.
Schedule Your Inlay and Onlay Consultation Today
If you need a strong, natural-looking restoration, inlays and onlays at La Jolla Dental Wellness Center are the perfect solution. Contact us today at 858-400-4605 to schedule your appointment or book online!
