We’ll assess the extent of the damage. Inlays and onlays are used when the tooth has moderate wear or decay and doesn’t yet need full coverage like a crown.
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Not every damaged tooth needs a crown, and not all decay can be treated with a simple filling. At Bella Dental in Ventura, we offer custom inlays and onlays to bridge the gap—preserving more of your natural tooth while providing long-lasting protection.
These restorations are designed to strengthen your teeth, improve function, and match the look of your natural smile with precision and care.
Dental inlays and onlays are restorative solutions for teeth that have sustained moderate damage—more than a filling can support, but not enough to require a crown. They’re often used on molars and premolars, where chewing pressure is highest.
Inlays fit within the center of the tooth, between the cusps.
Onlays cover one or more cusps and extend over the edge of the tooth.
Both are fabricated outside the mouth using durable materials and then bonded securely into place. They help restore strength, shape, and stability while conserving healthy enamel.
Inlays and onlays are ideal when a tooth is weakened but still mostly intact. Your Bella Dental dentist in Ventura may recommend one if you have:
Choosing an inlay or onlay early can prevent further breakdown and help preserve more of your original tooth.
At Bella Dental, we offer several materials for inlays and onlays based on function, aesthetics, and your personal preferences.
We’ll help you compare the benefits of each material to find the best match for your tooth and your lifestyle.
Putting off treatment can give a small problem time to grow into a bigger one. Without restoration, decayed or cracked teeth may worsen and lead to more complex procedures like crowns, root canals, or even extractions.
Inlays and onlays provide a conservative way to stop the damage and avoid more invasive treatment. By restoring the structure early, you preserve more of your natural tooth and prevent future complications.
We’ve streamlined the inlay and onlay process at our Ventura office to make it simple, efficient, and comfortable.
We’ll begin with a complete exam and take X-rays if needed. Once we determine that an inlay or onlay is right for your tooth, we’ll numb the area and remove any decay or damaged structure. An impression is taken and sent to our dental lab, where your restoration is custom-made. A temporary filling is placed to protect your tooth in the meantime.
At your next appointment, we’ll remove the temporary and fit your inlay or onlay. We’ll check for proper bite and fit before bonding it permanently in place using a high-strength adhesive. Once polished, it feels smooth and looks just like your natural tooth.
This two-visit process is straightforward and helps restore your chewing ability quickly and comfortably.
With proper care, your inlay or onlay can last for 10 to 15 years or more. Good hygiene and regular checkups are key.
Let us know if your bite feels off or if you notice any changes in the restoration. Minor adjustments can be made to improve comfort and function.
Inlays and onlays combine the strength of a crown with the conservative approach of a filling. They offer excellent longevity and a custom fit tailored to your tooth’s unique shape.
Benefits include:
They’re ideal for patients who want strong, durable repair without sacrificing their tooth’s natural look.
If you’re dealing with a cracked, worn, or weakened tooth, we can help. At Bella Dental in Ventura, we offer personalized treatment and high-quality restorations that support your smile for the long term.
We’ll assess the extent of the damage. Inlays and onlays are used when the tooth has moderate wear or decay and doesn’t yet need full coverage like a crown.
Not if you choose porcelain or composite. These materials are color-matched to your natural enamel and blend in beautifully.
Treatment typically takes two visits—one for preparation and impressions, the second for placement. Each appointment lasts about an hour.
Not at all. We numb the area before treatment, and any post-procedure sensitivity usually fades within a day or two.
Yes. Once the numbness wears off, you can eat normally. We suggest starting with softer foods for the first 24 hours.
Most dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for inlays and onlays. Our team will review your benefits and explain your costs up front.
With good care, they can last 10–15 years or longer, depending on the material and your oral hygiene habits.
Yes. If an inlay or onlay wears down or loosens over time, we can replace it with a new one using your original records or updated impressions.
Yes. They’re more stable, longer-lasting, and reduce the risk of further cracking. Fillings may weaken large areas of a tooth over time.
Call us right away. We’ll examine the area and make any necessary repairs or replacements to keep your tooth protected.
Call Bella Dental at (805) 394-3000 for more information on booking an appointment, or fill out the form below and we will reach out to you!
