Dental Inlays and Onlays

Stronger smiles with dental inlays & onlays in Monterey

At Monterey Peninsula Dental Group, we offer durable, natural-looking solutions to restore damaged teeth, including dental inlays and onlays. These options are ideal when a filling isn’t quite enough, but a full crown isn’t necessary. If you’re looking for dental inlays in Monterey or exploring your options for dental onlays, our experienced team is here to help you smile with confidence again.

What’s the difference between an inlay and an onlay?

Where a dental filling is created directly in the tooth, dental inlays and onlays are restorations that we fabricate outside the mouth, similar to how dental crowns are made. Unlike a crown, inlays and onlays don’t cover the entire tooth, so they keep more of your tooth structure intact.

• A dental inlay fits neatly inside the grooves of your tooth, repairing damage without covering the cusps (the raised points). 
• A dental onlay, on the other hand, extends over one or more cusps, offering a little more coverage.

Both are made from strong materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold. We typically use tooth-colored porcelain because that blends beautifully with your natural smile.

When do you need an inlay or onlay?

You might need an inlay or onlay when:

• A cavity is too big for a regular filling
• A tooth is cracked or weakened but doesn’t need a full crown
• You’re replacing an old metal filling with something more aesthetic

If more than half of your tooth’s biting surface is damaged, these restorations can provide the strength and protection needed without removing as much natural tooth structure as a crown.

We specialize in dental inlays in Monterey and can help determine which solution is right for your smile.

The inlay & onlay process—what to expect

We make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible. Here’s what typically happens:

1. First Visit:
   We’ll gently clean the damaged area, take digital impressions, and place a temporary seal. 
2. Custom Crafting:
   When appropriate, we’ll craft your inlay or onlay with precision right here in our office using advanced CEREC technology. This often means same-day inlays and onlays, no waiting weeks for a lab. 
3. Placement:
   When your restoration is ready, we’ll carefully bond it to your tooth, making sure it fits perfectly. Then we polish it up so it looks and feels great. 

You’ll leave with a stronger, healthier tooth and a fully restored smile.

Why choose inlays or onlays over fillings or crowns?

We always take the most conservative appropriate approach to keeping your teeth as strong and healthy as possible. Dental fillings and crowns are reliable, predictable treatments for most issues. However, inlays and onlays have some significant benefits!

• Highly durable (can last 10–30 years with proper care)
• Less invasive than full crowns
• Aesthetic and stain-resistant
• Supportive of long-term oral health

Our Monterey dental team will walk you through every option, so you can feel confident about your choice.

Ask us if dental inlays in Monterey are right for you!

Our team at Monterey Peninsula Dental Group is proud to offer advanced restorative solutions with a gentle, personalized approach. Whether you’re looking for dental inlays in Monterey or need help deciding between an inlay, onlay, or crown, we’ll provide honest guidance and high-quality care backed by decades of experience.

Not sure if an inlay or onlay is right for you? Come in for a consultation, and we’ll take a close look at your teeth and discuss your best options. We’re here to help you protect your smile for the long haul.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment for dental inlays or onlays in Monterey!

Monterey Peninsula Dental Group is proud to use CEREC technology to create inlays and onlays in a way that’s quick and convenient for our patients.