Inlays & Onlays in Hawthorne, CA

A Conservative Approach to Tooth Restoration

At Schnierow Dental Care, we understand that not every damaged tooth requires a full dental crown. That’s where inlays and onlays come in—a conservative solution for restoring teeth that are too damaged for a filling but do not yet need complete coverage. These custom restorations strengthen teeth, protect their structure, and blend seamlessly with your natural smile.

What Are Inlays & Onlays?

  • Inlays – Designed to fit within the grooves of a tooth, typically used when the chewing surface is damaged but the tooth structure around the cusps is intact.
  • Onlays – Sometimes called “partial crowns,” onlays extend over one or more cusps, covering a larger portion of the tooth while still preserving healthy enamel.

Both are crafted from durable, tooth-colored porcelain or composite materials for long-lasting strength and a natural appearance.

Benefits of Inlays & Onlays

Patients often choose inlays and onlays because they:

  • Preserve more of the natural tooth compared to full crowns
  • Provide superior durability compared to standard dental fillings
  • Resist staining and wear
  • Strengthen weakened teeth to prevent future fractures
  • Look and feel just like natural teeth

The Treatment Process

Getting inlays or onlays typically involves two appointments:

  1. Initial Exam & Preparation
    • We assess the tooth during a dental exam and remove any decay or damaged areas.
    • A digital impression or mold is taken to create your custom restoration.
    • A temporary filling is placed to protect your tooth.

  2. Final Placement
    • Once the inlay or onlay is ready, we bond it securely to your tooth.
    • Adjustments are made for comfort and bite alignment.
    • You leave with a stronger, healthier, and natural-looking smile.

Inlays & Onlays vs. Other Restorations

  • Compared to Fillings: More durable, resistant to shrinkage, and better suited for larger restorations.
  • Compared to Crowns: Less invasive, preserves more of your tooth structure, and often the right middle ground when a crown isn’t yet necessary.

For patients needing multiple restorations, inlays and onlays can also be part of a full mouth reconstruction.

Service Areas

Schnierow Dental Care proudly provides inlays and onlays to patients in:

  • Hawthorne, CA
  • Lawndale, CA
  • Del Aire, CA
  • Alondra Park, CA
  • Inglewood, CA
  • Torrance, CA

We also welcome new patients from throughout Los Angeles County.

FAQs About Inlays & Onlays

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Are inlays and onlays painful to get?

No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring you remain comfortable throughout.

How long do they last?

With proper care and routine cleanings and exams, inlays and onlays can last 10–20 years or longer.

Do they require special care?

No. Brush, floss, and schedule regular checkups as you would with your natural teeth.

When is an onlay better than an inlay?

An onlay is used when the tooth’s cusp is damaged and needs extra coverage, while inlays restore smaller interior areas.

Can they be used on front teeth?

Inlays and onlays are typically used on molars and premolars but can sometimes be applied to front teeth depending on the damage.

Strengthen Your Smile with Inlays & Onlays

If you have a damaged tooth but want to avoid a full crown, inlays and onlays may be the right choice for you. Call Schnierow Dental Care at (424) 383-5005 or request an appointment online. Explore additional options in restorative dentistry to learn how we can help rebuild your smile.

Office Info

  • Open Late & Saturdays
  • Se habla español