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What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-made indirect restorations used to repair moderately damaged teeth. They are crafted in a dental lab from durable, tooth-colored materials like porcelain or composite resin, offering a conservative and aesthetic alternative to full crowns.

How It Works

The process involves removing decay, taking a precise impression of the prepared tooth, and placing a temporary restoration. The impression is sent to a dental lab where your permanent inlay or onlay is custom-crafted for a perfect fit and optimal strength.

When Is An Inlay Or Onlay Used?

They are ideal when a tooth has moderate decay or damage that is too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to require a full dental crown. They preserve more healthy tooth structure compared to crowns.

Difference Between An Inlay & An Onlay

An inlay fits within the cusps (top projections) of a tooth. An onlay is larger, covering one or more cusps to restore the tooth’s biting surface. Think of an inlay as filling a hole within the tooth’s cusps. An onlay is like a partial crown that also covers and protects one or more of the worn-down cusps. Both provide superior strength and fit compared to traditional fillings.

Advantages of Inlays & Onlays

Superior Strength & Durability

Made from high-strength porcelain or composite resin, they are more durable than traditional fillings and can withstand chewing forces, often lasting for decades.

Tooth Preservation

They are a conservative treatment, requiring less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to a full dental crown, which helps preserve the long-term health of your tooth.

Perfect Fit & Comfort

Being fabricated in a dental laboratory allows for an exceptionally precise fit, which improves comfort, reduces the risk of decay at the margins, and protects the tooth.

Aesthetic Excellence

They are custom-colored to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth enamel, providing a virtually invisible and highly aesthetic restoration.

Stain Resistance

Porcelain restorations are highly resistant to staining from coffee, tea, or other pigments, helping your restoration stay brighter for longer.

Why Patients Choose Us

Choosing Pinetree Dental means trusting a caring team dedicated to your comfort, health, and long-term confidence in your smile.

Comprehensive Dental Services

You’ll find everything from preventive care to restorative and cosmetic treatments—making it simple to meet all your dental needs in one place.

Experienced & Skilled Team

Our dentists and hygienists bring years of expertise, ensuring you receive professional, trustworthy care tailored to your unique oral health needs.

Advanced Technology

From digital x-rays, 3-D Scanners to oral cancer screenings, our technology helps detect issues early and supports precise, comfortable treatment every visit.

Conveniences for Patients

Enjoy ample parking, Saturday appointments, a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere, and multilingual support designed to make every visit stress-free and accessible.

Your Dental Care Timeline

At Pinetree Dental, we make your oral health journey simple and stress-free with a clear four-step process.

New Patient Consultation – Meet & Share
You’ll meet our friendly team, share your dental history, and discuss your goals for a healthy, confident smile. 
Our dentists perform a complete exam and oral cancer screening. If needed for a proper diagnosis, we will take digital X-rays to see what’s happening beneath the surface and ensure your care is right for you.
Recommended treatments are explained clearly, and our team provides gentle, tailored care to address your specific dental needs effectively. 
Routine cleanings and preventive steps protect your teeth, strengthen gums, and help you maintain a bright, confident smile for life.

Caring Dental Experts Dedicated to Your Family’s Smile

At Pinetree Dental, our compassionate team combines skill, experience, and a genuine commitment to patient comfort. From routine dental cleanings to more advanced care, we provide trustworthy guidance and personalized treatment—ensuring your family’s smiles stay healthy, bright, and confident for years to come.

Let’s Talk Teeth Today

Have questions or need an appointment? Reach Pinetree Dental by calling 604-464-8826 or completing the quick form below.