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Inlays & Onlays in Houston: The Perfect Middle Ground for Tooth Restoration
Are you dealing with tooth decay that's too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to warrant a full crown? At Best Dental, Dr. Jasmine Naderi offers the perfect solution with dental inlays and onlays. These conservative restorations provide exceptional durability while preserving more of your natural tooth structure.
What are they?
Dental inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that fit perfectly into or onto damaged teeth. They represent a middle ground in dental treatments:
- Inlays fit within the cusps (bumps) of your tooth, similar to fillings but much stronger
- Onlays extend over one or more cusps, providing more coverage for damaged areas while being less invasive than crowns
Both restorations are crafted from high-quality materials that match your natural tooth color, making them virtually undetectable when you smile or speak.
Benefits
The Benefits of Choosing Inlays and Onlays
At Best Dental, Houston patients choose inlays and onlays for several compelling reasons:
- Preservation of tooth structure – Unlike crowns, inlays and onlays require minimal removal of healthy tooth material
- Superior durability – These restorations typically last 15-30 years, significantly outlasting traditional fillings
- Perfect fit – Custom-made in a dental laboratory for your specific tooth
- Natural appearance – Created to match your tooth color for a seamless smile
- Cavity prevention – Their precise fit helps prevent bacteria from entering and causing further decay
The Inlay and Onlay Process at Best Dental
When you visit Dr. Naderi at our Houston office, the process typically involves just two appointments:
During your first visit, Dr. Naderi will remove decay and take precise impressions of your tooth. You’ll receive a temporary restoration while your custom inlay or onlay is created.
At your second appointment, Dr. Naderi will carefully bond your permanent restoration to your tooth, ensuring a perfect fit and comfortable bite.
When Are Inlays and Onlays the Right Choice?
These restorations are ideal when:
- You have moderate to severe tooth decay
- An old filling needs replacement
- You’ve experienced tooth fractures that don’t require a full crown
- You want a natural-looking, long-lasting solution
If You Are In Need Of Inlays & Onlays In Houston, TX Contact Our Team Today!
We look forward to hearing from you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Inlays & Onlays
What is the typical cost of inlays and onlays in Houston?
The average cost of inlays and onlays typically ranges from $650 to $1,200 per tooth in Houston, depending on several factors including the material chosen, the size of the restoration needed, and which tooth requires treatment.
Porcelain and composite inlays and onlays generally fall in the middle of this range, while gold restorations may cost slightly more due to material expenses. While this investment is higher than traditional fillings (which average $150-$300), it’s considerably less than full crowns ($1,000-$1,500) and provides significantly longer durability.
Dr. Naderi believes in transparent pricing, which is why we provide detailed cost breakdowns during your consultation and offer several financing options to make these premium restorations accessible to all our Houston patients.
Are inlays and onlays covered by dental insurance?
Most dental insurance plans provide at least partial coverage for inlays and onlays when they’re deemed medically necessary. The typical coverage ranges from 50% to 80% of the procedure cost, similar to how fillings are covered. At Best Dental, our patient coordinators work closely with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket expenses before treatment begins. We also offer flexible payment plans to help make these durable restorations accessible for patients without insurance or with limited coverage.
Is the procedure for getting inlays and onlays painful?
The procedure for inlays and onlays is virtually painless, as Dr. Naderi ensures your comfort by providing appropriate local anesthesia before beginning treatment. Most patients report experiencing no more discomfort than they would with a standard filling. At Best Dental, we prioritize your comfort throughout the entire process, offering options like noise-canceling headphones, comfort blankets, and even sedation dentistry for anxious patients. After the procedure, you might experience minor sensitivity for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How do I care for my new inlay or onlay?
Caring for inlays and onlays is straightforward and follows the same principles as good general dental hygiene. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss at least once a day, and continue your regular dental check-ups with Dr. Naderi at Best Dental every six months. Unlike some dental restorations, inlays and onlays don’t typically require special cleaning tools or techniques. However, if you grind your teeth at night, Dr. Naderi might recommend wearing a nightguard to protect your restoration and extend its lifespan even further.
What materials are used for inlays and onlays, and how do I choose?
At Best Dental, Dr. Naderi offers inlays and onlays in several materials, including porcelain, composite resin, and gold. Porcelain provides the most natural appearance and is ideal for visible teeth, while gold offers unmatched durability and is often recommended for molars where appearance is less critical. Composite resin provides a balance between aesthetics and affordability. During your consultation, Dr. Naderi will discuss the advantages of each material based on the location of your tooth, your budget, and your personal preferences to help you make the best choice for your specific situation.
