Crafting Beautiful Smiles with Inlays & Onlays in Bellevue
If you have a large filling that needs replacing, you don’t always have to get a full crown. A more conservative alternative is inlays and onlays—custom, lab-crafted restorations that restore only the damaged portion of the tooth instead of covering the entire surface.
The raised points on a tooth are called cusps. Inlays fit between cusps, while onlays cover one or more, preserving more natural tooth structure than a full crown.
Not every tooth needs an inlay or onlay, so your dentist will assess the damage and recommend the best solution. These custom restorations are made in a lab, requiring two visits. The first visit involves preparing your tooth, removing decay or old fillings, and taking impressions. Teeth that show when you smile usually get a tooth-colored restoration, while back teeth may need a stronger metal option in Bellevue. A temporary restoration protects your tooth until the final piece is ready.
At the second visit, your permanent inlay or onlay is carefully bonded, adjusted for bite alignment, and polished. The result is a strong, natural-looking tooth that restores function and confidence—helping you enjoy a healthier smile for years to come.