Inlays and Onlays in Crystal Lake, IL

When a tooth is too damaged for a simple filling but doesn’t yet require a full crown, inlays and onlays offer a perfect balance of strength, beauty, and preservation. At Kopp Bloom Full General Dentistry, we use these custom restorations to repair decayed or cracked teeth while maintaining as much of your natural enamel as possible. Designed for durability and a flawless match, they restore both the function and appearance of your smile with precision.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom-crafted restorations made from high-quality, tooth-colored materials such as porcelain or composite resin.

Inlays fit within the chewing surface of your tooth, similar to a filling, and are used when damage is contained between the cusps (the raised edges).
Onlays extend over one or more cusps, offering additional strength and coverage for teeth with more extensive damage.

Both are bonded securely to your tooth, blending naturally with your smile while providing long-lasting protection against further wear or decay.

When Do You Need an Inlay or Onlay?

Your dentist may recommend an inlay or onlay if you have:

A large cavity that can’t be treated with a standard filling
A cracked or fractured tooth that’s still structurally sound
Worn or old metal fillings that need replacement
Damage that doesn’t warrant a full crown

Inlays and onlays are an excellent way to restore strength and aesthetics while preserving more of your natural tooth structure.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Choosing inlays or onlays offers several key advantages, including:

Restored strength and stability for damaged teeth
A natural, aesthetic appearance that blends with your smile
More preservation of healthy enamel than a traditional crown
High resistance to staining and wear
Improved chewing comfort and bite alignment

The Treatment Process

Getting an inlay or onlay is a simple two-step process designed for comfort and precision.

First Visit – Tooth Preparation & Impression

The damaged area is gently cleaned and shaped. We then take precise digital impressions of your tooth to create a custom-fit restoration that matches your natural bite and color.

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Second Visit – Placement & Bonding

Once your inlay or onlay is ready, it’s carefully bonded to your tooth. The restoration is then polished and adjusted for a perfect fit, leaving your tooth strong, smooth, and natural-looking

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Restore Your Smile With Confidence

If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, inlays and onlays may be the ideal solution to protect and restore your smile—without the need for a full crown. Schedule your appointment at Kopp Bloom Full General Dentistry today. Our skilled team will evaluate your tooth and recommend the best treatment to help you smile, speak, and chew with confidence again.