6729 Lake Rd,
Windsor, WI 53598

Inlays and Onlays

Higher End Fillings For Cavities In Windsor, WI

Inlays and onlays are used when more than half of a tooth’s biting surface is damaged. Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. The pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth.

What’s the difference between inlays and onlays?

An inlay is similar to a filling. It’s used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is more substantial reconstruction. It extends out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth. Contact Windsor Family Dental for a consultation on your options to protect weakened teeth.

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inlays or onlays to treat damaged teeth in Windsor, WI

The Inlays and Onlays Procedure

Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure.

The first inlay or onlay visit involves:

  1. Removing the filling being replaced or the damaged area of the tooth
  2. Preparing the tooth for the inlay or onlay
  3. Taking an impression of the tooth to ensure comfortable fit and bite
  4. Making a temporary restoration for the tooth
  5. Scheduling the second appointment

Your second inlay or onlay appointment involves:

  1. Removing the temporary restoration
  2. Assuring the inlay or only fits correctly
  3. Bonding the inlay or onlay to the tooth with a strong resin
  4. Polishing the inlay or onlay to a smooth finish

Inlays vs. Fillings

Traditional fillings, such as amalgam, can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50 percent. Inlays and onlays are directly bonded to the tooth using high-strength resins, increasing the strength of a tooth by up to 75 percent. Traditional fillings last about 5+ years while an inlay or onlay can last from 10 to 20 years.

To schedule your first inlay or onlay visit, contact our office today. We provide restorative dental treatments to patients out of Dane and Columbia County including Madison, DeForest, Waunakee, Arlington, and Sun Prairie.

Our restorative treatments include:

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays provide effective long-term protection for damaged teeth (molars or premolars). While inlays replace metal fillings and guard cavity sites on the inside of a tooth, onlays extend over the tooth’s surface, serving as a solution for more extensive tooth damage.

Inlays and onlays: 

  • Preserve healthy portions of a tooth 
  • Are stronger and last longer than traditional fillings
  • Are custom-made for a natural, secure fit 
  • Are low-maintenance with proper oral hygiene 
  • Help prevent bacteria and infections from compromising oral health

Who is a candidate for inlays or onlays?

To be a candidate for inlays or onlays, a patient must have enough surrounding tooth structure to make the restoration possible. Other requirements include: 

  • A commitment to excellent oral hygiene 
  • A restoration site small enough where a crown is not required 

Do you have questions about whether inlays or onlays are right for you? Our Windsor Family Dental team is happy to help. Contact us today!

Dental Inlays & Onlays FAQs

 

Which is better inlay or onlay?

While inlays and onlays are known to be longer term solutions over many traditional fillings for cavities, determining which is better depends on your situation. For less extensive tooth reconstruction, inlays are preferred, lasting longer than onlays. In events where more major tooth reconstruction is needed, onlays cover more surface area of the tooth and can be a great alternative to crowns.

How much does it cost to get an onlay?

Onlays usually cost within the range of $800 - $1300, with many around $900. Check with your insurance plan on coverage for receiving an onlay, as the treatment is considered a health concern towards restoring damaged teeth.

How long do tooth onlays last?

Onlays can last an average of 10-15 years, noticeably less than inlays. Onlays do not last as long as inlays due to increased wear and tear. A longer lifespan is possible with proper care.

How much is a tooth inlay?

Tooth inlays cost anywhere between $500 - $2000, with many costing $700 - $800 on average. While inlays come with a greater cost, they tend to be more durable and last longer over traditional fillings. Check if your dental insurance covers dental inlays, as partial coverage for this treatment is common.

How long does a tooth inlay last?

Tooth inlays can last between 15 - 20 years. How long your tooth inlays last will ultimately depend on your choice of material. Porcelain inlays last the longest, with gold lasting the second longest and metal inlays lasting the least longest.

Get In Touch With Us

See why people have been coming back to us for over 45 years

Ann B.

I always enjoy my teeth cleaning with Emily. You can tell from her attitude that she really cares about her patients. She really is the best. Everyone is helpful at Windsor Family Dental. I highly recommend them.

Nick Z.

Dana, my hygienist, did a fantastic job. With over 25 years of experience, she skillfully engaged in conversation with me while working on my teeth, making the cleaning process pleasant and comfortable. I also had the pleasure of meeting Kristi, Dr. DeMatthew's assistant, who was friendly and personable. Dr. DeMatthew herself was articulate in explaining the details of my dental health, making sure I understood everything clearly. Overall, my experience at Windsor Family Dental was wonderful, and I highly recommend Dr. DeMatthew and her staff.

Kaci K.

I had to switch dental clinics because of insurance reasons and I am happy to have landed at Windsor Family Dental. The staff here is great and I love Dr. Zhao, she addressed a concern that I’ve had for years and put my mind at ease. Everyone made me feel comfortable and after my visit my lifelong dread of dental appointments has vanished.

Windsor Family Dental
Optimal Wellness Plan

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Enroll in our in-house dental membership plan today!
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Additional Benefits

12% OFFAdditional Treatment

1 panoramic or full mouth x-ray when indicated

* Invisalign, whitening gels and strips, and resale items excluded from the 12% discount

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Adult (14 years & older)

$39/mo Save $422

Includes

2 Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Child (13 years & under)

$34/moSave $398

Includes

2 Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Perio - 3x per year

$67/moSave $663

Includes

3 Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Perio - 4x per year

$82/moSave $689

Includes

4 Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

One-time enrollment fee of $99 for existing patients, new patients $149. Enrollment fee waived under annual membership option.

THIS IS NOT DENTAL INSURANCE. Cannot be combined with other insurance or discount plans. Membership plan is specific to one person and cannot be transferred. Covered services not used within the specified time period will not be carried over or transferred. Services will be provided at this location only. Membership plan will auto-renew each year on the renewal date. If a patient presents with periodontal infection, a personalized treatment plan will be presented at an additional cost. The perio plan is strictly for preventive maintenance care.