Inlays & Onlays in White House, TN
Precision Restorations for Damaged or Decayed Teeth
When a tooth has more damage than a filling can repair but doesn’t require a full crown, Inlays & Onlays offer the ideal balance of preservation and strength. At The Smile Center, we provide custom inlay and onlay restorations to repair moderate tooth decay or damage with lasting, natural-looking results.
These restorations are designed to protect your tooth while preserving as much of your healthy enamel as possible. We proudly serve patients in White House, Goodlettsville,Hendersonville, Portland, and Springfield, TN.
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What Are Inlays & Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-fabricated restorations made from porcelain or composite materials. They’re bonded to a tooth when a standard dental filling isn’t sufficient, but a full dental crown would remove too much healthy structure.
- Inlays fit within the grooves of the tooth’s chewing surface, similar to a filling but more durable and precise.
- Onlays cover one or more cusps of the tooth and may extend over the sides. They're sometimes called “partial crowns.”
Each restoration is custom-designed to match the shape and color of your natural tooth, blending seamlessly into your smile.
Benefits of Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays offer a conservative yet effective solution for moderate decay or structural damage. Patients often choose them for the following benefits:
- Preserve more natural tooth structure than crowns
- Stronger and longer-lasting than traditional fillings
- Natural appearance with custom-matched materials
- Tight, secure fit that helps prevent further decay
- Improved bite and function for long-term stability
These restorations are often part of a broader treatment plan, especially for patients receiving smile makeovers or full-mouth rehabilitation.
All restorative work is performed with precision by Dr. Frederick L. Jones, Jr., with the expertise of Dr. Brandie White-Ates and Dr. Gage Gregory as part of our highly skilled dental team.
The Inlay & Onlay Procedure
Receiving an inlay or onlay typically involves two visits:
- Tooth Preparation and Impression
We remove any decayed or damaged material, then take a digital impression of the tooth. A temporary restoration is placed to protect your tooth. - Final Restoration Placement
Once your custom inlay or onlay is crafted, we remove the temporary and bond the permanent piece in place. The restoration is adjusted for bite accuracy and polished for a seamless fit.
Inlays and onlays may also be combined with fluoride treatment or oral cancer screenings as part of your comprehensive dental care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Inlays & Onlays
How are inlays and onlays different from fillings?
Fillings are placed directly into the tooth in a single visit, while inlays and onlays are custom-fabricated outside the mouth and bonded during a second visit. Inlays and onlays are more durable and precisely fitted.
Do inlays and onlays last longer than fillings?
Yes. Inlays and onlays are stronger and more resistant to wear and fracture. With proper care, they can last 10–20 years or more.
Are inlays and onlays noticeable?
No. They’re made from tooth-colored materials like porcelain or composite and are custom-matched to your surrounding enamel, making them virtually invisible.
Is the procedure painful?
Not at all. We use local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Most patients find the process as easy as getting a regular filling.
Can I get an onlay instead of a crown?
In some cases, yes. If enough healthy tooth structure remains, an onlay can be used instead of a full crown, preserving more of your natural tooth.
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Book Your Inlay or Onlay Consultation Today
Protect and restore your smile with beautifully crafted Inlays & Onlays at The Smile Center. Whether you're dealing with moderate decay or replacing an old filling, we provide lasting solutions that preserve and strengthen your natural teeth.