Inlays and Onlays in Murray, Utah

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage. They’re sometimes referred to as indirect fillings because they’re fabricated outside the mouth and then bonded to the tooth.

• Inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth (between the cusps), often replacing old or broken fillings.
• Onlays cover a larger area, extending over one or more cusps of the tooth—often called a "partial crown."

Made from strong, tooth-colored materials like ceramic or porcelain, these restorations blend naturally with your existing teeth and are more durable than traditional fillings.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

• Preserve healthy tooth structure – Less removal than a full crown
• Long-lasting durability – More resistant to wear than composite fillings
• Seamless appearance – Tooth-colored and custom-matched for natural aesthetics
• Improved strength – Reinforces the tooth without overbuilding
• Stain resistance – Ceramic materials don’t discolor like metal or resin

If you’ve been told you need a crown or large filling, we may recommend an inlay or onlay as a more conservative option.

When Are Inlays or Onlays Recommended?

We may recommend this treatment if:

• A tooth has moderate decay or fracture
• A previous filling has failed or broken
• You want a stronger, longer-lasting alternative to traditional fillings
• You prefer a more natural-looking option over silver or metal fillings

In some cases, patients who previously received a same-day crown might have been better candidates for an onlay, depending on the extent of damage and preservation of tooth structure.

The Treatment Process

1. Evaluation and imaging – We assess the tooth using digital X-rays and intraoral imaging
2. Tooth preparation – Decay or damage is removed and the tooth is shaped for restoration
3. Digital impression – A precise scan is taken to design your inlay or onlay
4. Fabrication – The restoration is milled or lab-crafted for a perfect fit
5. Bonding and polishing – We securely place the inlay/onlay and adjust it for a comfortable bite

Many cases can be completed in a single visit using our in-house CEREC system, depending on the size and complexity of the restoration.

How Long Do Inlays and Onlays Last?

With proper oral hygiene and regular checkups, inlays and onlays can last 10–15 years or longer. They're less likely to crack or leak compared to large composite fillings and are easier to maintain than traditional crowns.

To protect your restoration, we may also recommend a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth.

Why Choose Peak Dental Utah?

At Peak Dental Utah, we believe in conservative, quality-driven dentistry. Inlays and onlays allow us to preserve more of your natural tooth while still providing strong, aesthetic restorations.

Dr. S. Michael Vaughan and Dr. Roxanna Dobran use state-of-the-art imaging and milling technology to ensure every restoration fits precisely and looks completely natural. We tailor each treatment to your needs, comfort, and long-term oral health goals.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you have a damaged or decayed tooth but want to avoid a full crown, an inlay or onlay may be the ideal solution. Let our team help you find the most effective, minimally invasive treatment for your smile.

Call (801) 278-3214 or request an appointment online.