Dental Inlays & Onlays Hillsboro OR | East Wind Dental Care

When a tooth is damaged by decay or trauma, but not severely enough to require a full crown, dental inlays and onlays offer the ideal middle-ground solution. At East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro, Oregon, Dr. Merat Ostovar provides these precision-crafted restorations that preserve more of your natural tooth structure while delivering strength and longevity that surpasses traditional fillings.

Located at 7546 NE Shaleen St, Hillsboro, OR 97124, our practice serves patients throughout Hillsboro, Beaverton, Aloha, Tanasbourne, and Orenco Station with advanced restorative dentistry solutions. If you’re dealing with a damaged tooth and want to explore your restoration options, call us at (503) 614-0198 to schedule a consultation.

What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair teeth that have moderate damage or decay – too extensive for a standard filling but not severe enough to warrant a full crown. Think of them as precision puzzle pieces that fit perfectly into or onto your tooth, restoring both function and appearance.

The key difference between inlays and onlays lies in how much of the tooth they cover:

Inlays fit within the cusps (the raised points) of your tooth, nestling into the center portion like a perfectly fitted puzzle piece. They’re used when the damage is contained within the inner portion of the tooth and doesn’t affect the cusps.

Onlays extend over one or more cusps of the tooth, providing coverage beyond the center portion. Sometimes called “partial crowns,” onlays are necessary when decay or damage has affected the cusps themselves, requiring more extensive restoration while still preserving healthy tooth structure.

Both restorations are fabricated in a dental laboratory or using advanced in-office technology, ensuring a precise fit that integrates seamlessly with your natural tooth structure.

The Perfect Alternative to Fillings and Crowns

Dr. Ostovar often recommends inlays and onlays because they occupy a valuable position in the spectrum of restorative dentistry options. When you understand where they fit, you can appreciate why they’re often the ideal choice:

Traditional Fillings: While direct fillings are excellent for small to moderate cavities, they have limitations. Composite resin fillings can shrink slightly during curing, and large fillings may not provide adequate structural support for heavily damaged teeth. Over time, large fillings can lead to fractures or failure, potentially requiring more extensive treatment later.

Dental Crowns: Full crowns are necessary for severely damaged teeth, but they require removing a significant amount of healthy tooth structure to accommodate the restoration. While crowns are sometimes necessary, preserving natural tooth structure is always preferable when possible.

Inlays and Onlays: These restorations strike the perfect balance. They’re stronger and more durable than fillings, providing superior structural support and longevity. Simultaneously, they’re more conservative than crowns, requiring less removal of healthy tooth structure. This preservation of natural tooth material contributes to better long-term oral health.

Materials Used for Inlays and Onlays

At East Wind Dental Care, we offer several materials for inlays and onlays, each with specific advantages:

Porcelain Inlays and Onlays

Porcelain is the most popular choice for inlays and onlays due to its exceptional aesthetic properties. High-quality dental porcelain can be precisely matched to your natural tooth color, making the restoration virtually invisible. Porcelain is also highly biocompatible, stain-resistant, and durable, with proper care lasting 10-30 years. The smooth, glass-like surface resists plaque accumulation better than natural tooth enamel.

Composite Resin Inlays and Onlays

Composite resin restorations offer excellent aesthetics at a more economical price point. While not quite as durable as porcelain, high-quality composite materials have improved dramatically and can provide many years of reliable service. They’re an excellent choice for teeth that don’t endure extreme chewing forces.

Gold Inlays and Onlays

While less commonly requested today due to aesthetic preferences, gold remains an outstanding material for posterior teeth. Gold inlays and onlays are exceptionally durable, biocompatible, and kind to opposing teeth. They can last 30 years or more and are the most conservative option in terms of tooth preparation. Some patients specifically request gold restorations for molars that aren’t visible when smiling.

Benefits of Choosing Inlays and Onlays

Patients who choose inlays and onlays at our Hillsboro dental practice enjoy numerous advantages:

Superior Durability and Longevity

Inlays and onlays are significantly stronger than traditional fillings. Because they’re fabricated in a laboratory using high-quality materials under controlled conditions, they can withstand substantial chewing forces. With proper care, you can expect your restoration to last 10-30 years – far longer than most direct fillings.

Preservation of Healthy Tooth Structure

Unlike crowns, which require removing tooth structure all around the tooth, inlays and onlays are conservative restorations. Dr. Ostovar removes only the damaged or decayed portion of your tooth, preserving as much healthy enamel and dentin as possible. This preservation contributes to better long-term tooth vitality and strength.

Precise Fit and Marginal Integrity

Because inlays and onlays are custom-fabricated based on precise impressions or digital scans of your tooth, they fit with exceptional accuracy. This precision minimizes the microscopic gaps where bacteria could potentially enter, reducing the risk of recurrent decay. The tight seal helps protect your tooth for decades.

Natural Appearance

Porcelain and composite inlays and onlays can be matched precisely to your natural tooth color. Even under close inspection, these restorations blend seamlessly with your smile. You can laugh, talk, and smile with complete confidence.

Strengthening Effect

Unlike fillings that merely fill space, inlays and onlays actually strengthen damaged teeth. The restoration bonds to the remaining tooth structure, reinforcing it and helping prevent future fractures. This strengthening effect is particularly valuable for teeth that have lost significant structure to decay.

Easy Maintenance

Caring for inlays and onlays is no different than caring for your natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are all that’s required to maintain your restoration for years to come.

Who Needs Inlays or Onlays?

Dr. Ostovar may recommend an inlay or onlay if you’re experiencing any of these situations:

Moderate to Large Cavities: When decay has affected a significant portion of your tooth, extending beyond what a filling can reliably restore, an inlay or onlay provides the strength and durability needed.

Fractured or Cracked Teeth: If you’ve fractured a cusp or have cracks that compromise tooth integrity, an onlay can cover and protect the damaged area while preserving healthy structure.

Failed or Failing Fillings: Large, old fillings sometimes crack, leak, or fall out. Rather than replacing them with another filling that may fail again, an inlay or onlay provides a more permanent solution.

Worn Teeth: Significant wear from grinding or erosion may require restoration to rebuild proper tooth shape and function. Inlays and onlays can restore proper contours and bite relationships.

Root Canal Treated Teeth: After root canal therapy, teeth become more brittle and prone to fracture. An onlay can protect and strengthen the tooth while preserving more structure than a crown.

Cosmetic Concerns: If you have old, discolored, or unsightly fillings in visible teeth, porcelain inlays or onlays can restore both function and beauty.

During your examination at our Hillsboro office, Dr. Ostovar will carefully evaluate your tooth’s condition, discuss your options, and recommend the restoration that best meets your needs and goals.

The Inlay and Onlay Treatment Process

Receiving an inlay or onlay at East Wind Dental Care typically requires two appointments, though we also offer same-day restorations using advanced technology when appropriate.

First Appointment: Preparation and Impression

During your initial visit, Dr. Ostovar will begin by ensuring you’re completely comfortable, administering local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. Once you’re comfortable, he’ll carefully remove any decay or damaged tooth structure, preserving as much healthy enamel and dentin as possible.

After preparation, we’ll take a precise impression of your tooth or create a digital scan using our advanced intraoral scanner. This capture records every detail of your prepared tooth and its relationship to surrounding teeth. We’ll also determine the ideal shade to match your natural teeth.

Before you leave, Dr. Ostovar will place a temporary restoration to protect your tooth while your permanent inlay or onlay is being fabricated. The impression or digital file is sent to our trusted dental laboratory, where skilled technicians will craft your custom restoration.

Between Appointments

Over the next one to two weeks, laboratory technicians will create your inlay or onlay using the materials you’ve selected. Every detail is carefully crafted to ensure proper fit, function, and aesthetics.

Second Appointment: Bonding Your Restoration

When you return for your second appointment, Dr. Ostovar will first remove the temporary restoration and thoroughly clean your tooth. He’ll then carefully try in your new inlay or onlay, checking the fit, contact with adjacent teeth, and bite relationship. Any minor adjustments needed will be made to ensure absolute precision.

Once the fit is perfect, the restoration is permanently bonded to your tooth using advanced adhesive technology. This bonding process actually strengthens both the restoration and your remaining tooth structure, creating an integrated unit that functions like a natural tooth.

Finally, Dr. Ostovar will make any final adjustments to ensure your bite feels completely natural and comfortable. He’ll polish the restoration to a smooth, natural luster and provide you with care instructions.

Advanced Technology for Precision Restorations

East Wind Dental Care utilizes cutting-edge technology to ensure the highest quality outcomes:

Digital Impressions: Our intraoral scanner eliminates messy impression materials while providing superior accuracy. The digital file can be immediately transmitted to the laboratory, expediting the fabrication process.

Digital Smile Design: We can show you a preview of your restoration before it’s even created, ensuring you’re completely satisfied with the planned result.

CEREC Same-Day Technology: For qualifying cases, we offer the option of receiving your restoration in a single appointment using our CEREC system, which designs and mills your inlay or onlay right in our office.

Magnification: Dr. Ostovar uses magnification loupes during preparation and bonding procedures, ensuring precision at every step.

Comparing Longevity: Inlays/Onlays vs. Other Restorations

Understanding how different restorations compare in terms of longevity helps you make informed decisions:

Traditional Fillings: Composite fillings typically last 5-10 years, while amalgam fillings may last 10-15 years. Larger fillings tend to fail sooner due to stress and potential for fracture.

Inlays and Onlays: With proper care, porcelain inlays and onlays commonly last 10-30 years. Gold restorations may last even longer, potentially a lifetime.

Dental Crowns: Quality crowns typically last 15-30 years, similar to inlays and onlays, but require removal of more tooth structure.

The superior longevity of inlays and onlays makes them an excellent investment in your oral health, often eliminating the need for multiple replacement restorations over your lifetime.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of inlays and onlays at East Wind Dental Care typically ranges from $650 to $1,200 per tooth, depending on the material selected and the extent of restoration needed. While this represents a greater initial investment than a filling, the superior durability and longevity often make inlays and onlays more cost-effective over time.

Most dental insurance plans cover inlays and onlays at a similar level to crowns, typically 50% of the cost after your deductible is met. Our knowledgeable team will verify your insurance benefits and provide a clear estimate before beginning treatment.

For patients without insurance or those seeking to spread payments over time, we offer flexible payment plans that make quality restorative care accessible and affordable. We believe financial considerations shouldn’t prevent you from receiving the treatment you need.

Caring for Your Inlays and Onlays

Maintaining your restoration is straightforward and requires the same care as your natural teeth:

Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush for two minutes twice daily.

Floss Daily: Carefully floss around your restoration, removing plaque and food particles from between teeth.

Regular Dental Visits: Maintain your regular checkup and cleaning schedule at East Wind Dental Care so we can monitor your restoration and overall oral health.

Avoid Hard Foods: While inlays and onlays are durable, avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or other extremely hard objects that could damage any dental restoration.

Wear a Nightguard: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, a custom nightguard from our office will protect your restoration and natural teeth from excessive wear.

Maintain Good Nutrition: A balanced diet supports overall oral health and helps your restoration last as long as possible.

With proper care and regular professional maintenance, your inlay or onlay will serve you reliably for many years, potentially decades.

Why Choose East Wind Dental Care for Your Restorative Needs?

Patients throughout Hillsboro, Beaverton, Aloha, Tanasbourne, and Orenco Station choose East Wind Dental Care for their restorative dentistry needs because of our commitment to excellence:

Dr. Merat Ostovar’s Expertise: With extensive training and years of experience in restorative dentistry, Dr. Ostovar combines technical precision with an artistic eye, ensuring restorations that are both functional and beautiful.

Advanced Technology: We invest in the latest dental technology to provide accurate diagnoses, precise treatment, and superior outcomes.

Conservative Philosophy: We believe in preserving natural tooth structure whenever possible, recommending the most conservative treatment that will provide lasting results.

Patient Comfort: From our comfortable office environment to our gentle techniques and effective anesthesia, we prioritize your comfort at every visit.

Comprehensive Care: Beyond restorative dentistry, we offer the full spectrum of dental services, from preventive care and cleanings to cosmetic dentistry and dental implants, providing convenient, coordinated care for your entire family.

Transparent Communication: We take time to explain your condition, discuss all treatment options, and answer your questions, ensuring you feel confident in your decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Inlays and Onlays

How do I know if I need an inlay, onlay, or crown?

The decision depends on how much tooth structure remains after removing decay or damage. Dr. Ostovar will carefully evaluate your tooth and recommend the most conservative restoration that will provide adequate strength and longevity. Generally, if the cusps are intact, an inlay works well. If one or more cusps need restoration but significant healthy structure remains, an onlay is ideal. When damage is extensive all around the tooth, a crown becomes necessary.

Are inlays and onlays painful to receive?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during treatment. Most patients experience minimal discomfort afterward, which typically resolves within a day or two. Any sensitivity is usually mild and temporary as your tooth adjusts to the restoration.

Can an inlay or onlay be repaired if damaged?

Minor chips or damage can sometimes be polished or repaired with bonding material. However, significant damage typically requires replacement of the entire restoration. This is one reason why protecting your restoration with good oral hygiene and possibly a nightguard if you grind your teeth is important.

Will my inlay or onlay stain over time?

Porcelain restorations are highly stain-resistant and maintain their color indefinitely. Composite resin restorations may experience slight discoloration over many years but generally remain aesthetically pleasing throughout their lifespan. Regular professional cleanings help maintain the appearance of all restorations.

How soon can I eat after getting my permanent inlay or onlay?

Once the anesthesia wears off, you can eat normally. However, we recommend waiting until you regain full sensation to avoid accidentally biting your numb cheek or tongue. Start with softer foods if you experience any sensitivity, though most patients return to their normal diet immediately.

What happens if decay develops under my inlay or onlay?

While properly placed and maintained inlays and onlays protect against decay, problems can occasionally occur if oral hygiene isn’t adequate or if the restoration becomes compromised. During your regular checkups, Dr. Ostovar carefully examines all restorations. If decay is detected, the restoration is removed, the decay is cleaned out, and a new restoration is placed.

Are inlays and onlays better than crowns?

Neither is universally “better” – each has specific indications. Inlays and onlays are preferable when adequate tooth structure remains because they preserve more natural tooth material. However, when a tooth is severely damaged or has had root canal therapy, a crown may provide necessary protection. Dr. Ostovar will recommend the restoration that best serves your long-term oral health.

Do you offer same-day inlays and onlays?

Yes, for qualifying cases, we can fabricate and place your restoration in a single appointment using our CEREC technology. This eliminates the need for temporaries and multiple visits. During your consultation, Dr. Ostovar will discuss whether same-day restoration is appropriate for your situation.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you have a damaged or decayed tooth and want to explore whether an inlay or onlay is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ostovar at East Wind Dental Care. We’ll perform a thorough examination, discuss your options, and develop a treatment plan that addresses your needs while fitting your budget and schedule.

Our Hillsboro office, conveniently located at 7546 NE Shaleen St, Hillsboro, OR 97124, welcomes patients from throughout the surrounding communities. Call us today at (503) 614-0198 to schedule your appointment.

Whether you need a single restoration or comprehensive restorative care, East Wind Dental Care provides the expertise, technology, and personalized attention you deserve. Let us help you preserve your natural smile with precision-crafted inlays and onlays that will serve you beautifully for years to come.

Don’t let damaged teeth compromise your oral health or confidence. Contact East Wind Dental Care today and discover how inlays and onlays can restore your smile’s strength, function, and beauty. We look forward to caring for you and your family with the exceptional dentistry that has made us a trusted name throughout Hillsboro and the surrounding communities.