CEREC Inlays/Onlays
Same-Day CEREC Inlays and Onlays: Precision Restorations Made Simple
When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but not enough to require a full crown, CEREC inlays and onlays provide the ideal middle ground. At Oviedo Premier Dental, these custom, same-day restorations repair and strengthen your tooth while preserving as much of its natural structure as possible. CEREC—short for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics—uses advanced digital imaging and CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacturing) technology to create precise, natural-looking restorations in one visit. Unlike traditional methods that require messy impressions, temporary crowns, and multiple appointments, CEREC makes it possible to walk in with a damaged tooth and leave with a durable, custom-made restoration the same day. One of the greatest benefits of CEREC inlays and onlays is their conservative approach to tooth restoration. Unlike crowns, which require the removal of a significant portion of healthy enamel to fit the restoration, inlays and onlays preserve most of your natural tooth. Only the damaged or decayed areas are removed, allowing your remaining healthy structure to stay intact. Choosing a CEREC inlay or onlay means opting for a minimally invasive treatment that reinforces your natural tooth while offering long-term beauty, function, and health.
What are CEREC Inlays and Onlays?
CEREC inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations designed to repair damaged or decayed teeth. They are a conservative, tooth-preserving alternative to full crowns, offering durability, precision, and aesthetics. An inlay fits inside the tooth’s cusps, while an onlay covers the outer portions of the tooth’s surface. Both restorations are crafted using high-quality ceramic that matches the natural color of your teeth. They are designed using advanced CAD/CAM technology, which ensures a perfect fit and seamless integration with your smile.
These restorations are ideal for patients who need more than a filling but want to preserve their natural tooth structure. Inlays and onlays are often recommended for moderate decay or damage, especially in areas where the tooth’s biting surface needs to be restored for strength and function.
How CEREC Inlays and Onlays Work
The CEREC process begins with a thorough examination and digital X-rays to assess the condition of your tooth. If your tooth is decayed or structurally compromised, the damaged areas are gently removed, leaving the healthy tooth intact.
Next, a digital 3D scan is taken of the prepared tooth. Unlike traditional impressions, which can be uncomfortable, the digital scan is quick and precise, capturing every detail of your tooth’s structure. The scan is uploaded into CEREC’s computer, where the dentist uses specialized software to design the restoration.
Once the design is approved, the restoration is created using an in-office milling machine. This process typically takes about 15–20 minutes, and the restoration is then bonded directly to your tooth. The result is a perfect fit with minimal discomfort and immediate function.
Conditions Treated with CEREC Inlays and Onlays
CEREC inlays and onlays are ideal for treating a variety of dental conditions, including:
- Moderate Tooth Decay: For teeth with significant decay that cannot be repaired with a simple filling, inlays and onlays provide strength and protection without requiring the removal of too much healthy enamel.
- Tooth Fractures: If a tooth has been cracked or fractured but the damage is not severe enough to require a full crown, an onlay can restore its function and appearance.
- Worn-down Teeth: Teeth that have been excessively worn down from grinding or other factors can benefit from the added protection of an inlay or onlay.
- Cosmetic Imperfections: Inlays and onlays can improve the appearance of a tooth, restoring its natural shape and color, especially in visible areas of the mouth.
These restorations provide an effective and aesthetic solution for tooth repair, offering patients a natural-looking smile with minimal invasiveness.
Replacing an old or damaged crown enhances your oral health while improving comfort and smile appearance.
