Inlays and Onlays at Mercer Sydell Dental

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Dover: Dover Phone Number 302-678-2942 | Milton: Milton Phone Number 302-684-1100 | Ocean View: Ocean View Phone Number 302-616-4760

Restore Your Smile with Custom Inlays and Onlays

If you have a tooth that is too damaged for a simple filling but not quite ready for a full crown, inlays and onlays may be the ideal solution. At Mercer Sydell Dental, we provide inlays and onlays designed to strengthen your smile while preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. Many patients come to us worried about losing more of their tooth than necessary, and that concern is exactly why this treatment exists. Our dentists take a conservative, precise approach so you get a restoration that fits comfortably and lasts for years to come.

What Are Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations used to repair teeth with moderate decay or damage. An inlay fits within the center of the tooth, between the cusps, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps to cover a larger portion of the biting surface. Both options are more conservative than a crown, yet more durable than a standard filling. Your dentist will recommend inlays or onlays when a tooth needs more support than a filling can offer but still has enough healthy structure to avoid a full crown.

What to Expect During Treatment

Treatment typically takes two visits. During the first, your dentist will remove any decay or old material, take a digital impression of the tooth, and place a temporary restoration to protect it. Using advanced digital scanning, our team designs a custom inlay or onlay that matches the exact shape of your tooth. On your second visit, your dentist will check the fit, make any needed adjustments, and bond the finished restoration securely in place. Most patients report little to no discomfort, and any mild sensitivity afterward usually fades within a few days.

Modern Technology for a Precise Fit

Our office uses digital impressions and CBCT radiograph technology to plan restorations with a high level of accuracy. This means fewer adjustments, a more comfortable fit, and a restoration built to match your bite naturally. Because inlays and onlays are crafted to precise specifications, they blend seamlessly with your existing teeth rather than standing out.

Comfort and Care You Can Count On

We know dental visits can feel stressful, so our team focuses on keeping you relaxed and informed throughout the process. Your dentist will walk you through each step, answer your questions, and make sure you feel confident about your treatment plan. From the moment you sit down for your consultation, our goal is to make the experience as smooth and reassuring as possible.

Advantages of Inlays and Onlays

• Conservative treatment that preserves more of your natural tooth
• Custom fabricated restorations for a precise, comfortable fit
• Advanced digital technology for accurate results
• Experienced dentists trained through the Kois Center and Wellness Dentistry Network
• A family-focused practice serving the community for over 50 years

Inlays vs Onlays at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you accept insurance for inlays and onlays?

We are an out-of-network provider, but we are happy to help you understand your benefits and file claims on your behalf.

How long does inlay or onlay treatment take?

Most patients complete treatment in two visits, with the second visit focused on fitting and bonding your final restoration.

Is getting an inlay or onlay painful?

Your dentist will numb the area before treatment, and most patients experience only mild, temporary sensitivity afterward.

How long do inlays and onlays last?

With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, inlays and onlays can last well over a decade.

Ready to Protect Your Smile?

Whether you need an inlay for a small area of damage or an onlay for broader support, our dentists are here to help you choose the right option for your tooth. Call Mercer Sydell Dental today to speak with our team about inlays and onlays. We are glad to verify your insurance benefits or answer any questions you have about the process.