SERVICES - RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY - INLAYS & ONLAYS

Dental Inlays & Onlays in Escondido, CA

EVERYTHING ABOUT DENTAL INLAYS & ONLAYS

Strong, conservative repairs between a filling and a crown

When a cavity or crack is too big for a filling—but a full crown would be more than you need—an inlay or onlay can restore strength and fit beautifully. Inlays repair the area inside the tooth’s biting surface; onlays cover one or more cusps for added protection.

How it work

We keep you comfortable, remove decay or weak material, and take a precise scan/impressions. A custom ceramic piece is crafted to your exact shape and shade, then bonded in place for a seamless, strong result.

Good fit if you want to:

Repair a cracked, worn, or heavily filled tooth

Protect a tooth after a root canal

Restore a broken tooth’s shape and bite

Improve appearance when other options won’t hold up

When another option makes sense

  • Composite filling: for smaller areas
  • Full crown: when the tooth needs 360° coverage
  • We’ll review pros/cons, timing, and costs so you can choose confidently.

What to expect

  • Visit 1: exam, photos/X-rays as needed, prep, and a temporary.
  • Visit 2 (about 2–3 weeks): try-in, bite check, and bonding.


Mild tenderness is common for a day or two; we’ll share easy care tips.

Care & longevity

Brush and floss daily, keep routine cleanings, and avoid chewing ice or very hard foods. If you clench or grind, a night guard helps protect your restoration. With good care, inlays/onlays last many years.

Materials & appearance

We use high-strength ceramics for lifelike color and excellent wear characteristics. Shade and translucency are matched to blend with your surrounding enamel.

Costs & financing

We’ll review a clear estimate before treatment. Our procedures are often elective; flexible financing is available through CareCredit® and LendingClub®.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We’ve got answers. If you can not find the answer you're looking for please reach out to us, we will gladly provide you with the answers you need.

Inlay vs. onlay—what’s the difference?

An inlay fits within the chewing surface; an onlay also covers one or more cusps for extra strength.

Will it look natural?

Yes—ceramics are shade-matched and polished to blend with your tooth.

Does it hurt?

We use local anesthetic and gentle techniques; most patients are comfortable during and after.

How long will it last?

With good home care and checkups, many patients enjoy long-term results.

Why not just do a large filling?

Large fillings can flex and wear. Bonded inlays/onlays provide stronger support and precise contacts.

What if the temporary comes off?

Call us—we’ll re-cement it to protect the tooth while your final is made.

Will insurance cover it?

Many plans contribute when medically necessary. We’ll provide a clear estimate and offer financing options.

Needs more than a filling—but not a full crown?

Let’s restore strength and keep healthy tooth with a custom inlay or onlay.

Mon–Thu 9–6 • Same-week fittings • Financing available

CONTACT US

Book your visit in minutes

Flexible Monday–Thursday hours and same-day help for dental emergencies.

Best dental team

Flexible Monday–Thursday hours and same-day help for dental emergencies.

Always at reach
Office hours

Monday–Thursday

9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Serving Escondido, San Marcos, Valley Center, Ramona & nearby communities.