Inlays & Onlays at Mint Dental Loft

Inlays & Onlays (anchor to dental crowns) at Mint Dental Loft in Altadena, CA are custom-made restorations that repair larger areas of decay or damage without needing a full Dental Crown. Think of them as the “in-between” solution: stronger and more protective than a filling, but more conservative than a crown, designed to fit your tooth precisely and look beautifully natural.

How Inlays & Onlays work

Inlays sit inside the grooves of your tooth, while onlays cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps (the raised points on top). After gently removing decay and shaping the area, we take precise impressions so a dental lab can create a restoration that fits your tooth exactly. At your next visit, we bond the inlay or onlay in place, check your bite, and polish everything so it feels smooth and comfortable. These restorations are often made of durable ceramic materials, similar to Dental Crowns, for strength and a natural look.

• Preserves more natural tooth Removes only the damaged part of the tooth, keeping as much healthy structure as possible. Great for: moderate decay or fractures
• Stronger than large fillings Custom-made and bonded into place to better withstand biting forces over time.
• Natural, stain-resistant appearance Tooth-colored materials are carefully matched to your smile for a seamless blend.
• Step before a crown Can delay or sometimes prevent the need for a full Dental Crown when damage is caught early.

Technology and materials we use

To make your Inlays & Onlays (anchor to dental crowns) last and look their best, we rely on careful planning, quality materials, and modern imaging. This lets us design restorations that fit comfortably, protect your tooth, and blend with your smile.

• Digital X-rays to assess the depth of decay and strength of the remaining tooth
• Intraoral cameras so you can see the areas we’re treating on a chairside screen
• High-quality ceramic or porcelain materials for durability and lifelike color
• Precise bonding techniques to seal and strengthen the repaired tooth
• Detailed bite adjustments to help your inlay or onlay feel natural when you chew

Am I a candidate for Inlays & Onlays?

You may be a good candidate for an inlay or onlay if you have a cavity or fracture that is too large for a simple filling but does not yet require a full Dental Crown. These restorations are commonly used on back teeth that bear heavier chewing forces. During your visit, we’ll examine your tooth, review X-rays, and explain whether an inlay, onlay, crown, or another option is the best choice for long-term health.

Before treatment starts, we’ll discuss the steps involved, expected lifespan, and how to care for your new restoration. We’ll also review insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs, and talk through payment or financing options if needed, so you can move forward with a clear plan that fits your budget.

Ready to strengthen a worn or damaged tooth?

If you’ve been told you need more than a filling—or you’re worried a tooth is breaking down—an Inlay & Onlay solution may be ideal. Call (626) 610-4413 or contact Mint Dental Loft in Altadena, CA to schedule a restorative consultation. We’ll walk you through your choices, including how inlays, onlays, and Dental Crowns can work together to protect your smile.