Inlays & Onlays in Fulshear, TX

Inlays and onlays are custom-made porcelain restorations that repair back teeth with damage too large for a filling but not severe enough to need a crown. At MK Dental Studio in Fulshear, TX, Dr. Madiha Khanani uses them to restore your tooth’s strength while preserving as much of your healthy natural tooth as possible. We serve patients from Fulshear, Brookshire, Katy, and the Jordan Ranch area.

Inlay vs. Onlay: What’s the Difference?

• Inlay — fits inside the grooves of the tooth’s chewing surface, between the cusps (the raised points)
• Onlay — covers one or more of the cusps when damage extends further; sometimes called a “partial crown”

When Are Inlays or Onlays Recommended?

• A cavity that is too large for a filling
• A broken or worn chewing surface
• Replacing an old, large filling
• A cracked cusp that doesn’t need a full crown

Why Choose Inlays or Onlays?

• Saves more natural tooth — only the damaged part is replaced, unlike a crown, which covers the whole tooth
• Strong and durable — custom-made porcelain resists wear and fracture
• Natural-looking — porcelain is shade-matched to blend with your tooth
• Precise fit — made from a digital 3D scan for a snug, comfortable fit

Filling vs. Inlay/Onlay vs. Crown

• Filling — best for small to moderate cavities
• Inlay or onlay — for larger damage when the outer walls of the tooth are still healthy
• Crown — for cracked or badly weakened teeth that need full coverage

The Inlay & Onlay Process

Inlays and onlays are completed in two visits:

1. First visit — after numbing the tooth, Dr. Khanani removes the decay or old filling, takes a digital 3D scan, and places a temporary restoration.
2. Second visit — your custom porcelain inlay or onlay is bonded in place, adjusted to your bite, and polished.

Caring for Your Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are bonded to your tooth, so caring for them is a lot like caring for your natural teeth. A few habits can help them last:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss once a day, paying extra attention to the edges where the restoration meets your tooth.
• Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, pens, or other hard objects that can chip porcelain or natural enamel.
• If you clench or grind your teeth, ask whether a custom nightguard could help protect your restoration at night.
• Keep up with regular checkups and cleanings, so Dr. Khanani can check the edges and catch small problems early.

Some mild sensitivity to hot or cold can happen for a short time after your final restoration is placed. If your bite feels high, or sensitivity doesn’t settle, call us at 281-219-8000 so we can take a look.