Dental inlays and onlays are a conservative, long-lasting way to restore teeth that have mild to moderate decay, cracks, or fractures — without needing a full dental crown. At Planet Family Dental in Lynnwood, WA, Dr. Megha Sheth uses inlays and onlays to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.
✅ Key Takeaway
Dental inlays and onlays are a middle ground between fillings and crowns — ideal for teeth with moderate damage that don't need full coverage. They're custom-made, durable, and preserve more of your natural tooth.
What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?
A dental inlay is a type of restoration placed inside the tooth to fill areas where decay has been removed. Similar to fillings, inlays fit within the grooves of the tooth — but they're custom-crafted in a lab for a precise, durable fit.
Onlays are similar but extend over one or more cusps (the raised points) of the tooth. Dr. Sheth recommends these restorations for teeth that have mild decay, moderate cracks, or fractures that aren't severe enough to require a full crown.
Types of Dental Inlays Available in Lynnwood, WA
At Planet Family Dental, Dr. Sheth offers different types of inlays depending on the tooth's location and your needs:
Inlay
Fits within the tooth without covering any cusps. Best for smaller areas of decay or damage in the chewing surface.
Onlay
Covers at least one cusp but doesn't cover the entire tooth. Ideal for moderate damage that's too large for a filling but doesn't need a full crown.
Overlay
Covers the entire chewing surface of the tooth. Used for more extensive damage while still preserving the tooth's side walls. These restorations are designed to repair endodontically treated teeth or teeth with significant structural loss.
How Dr. Sheth Places Dental Inlays at Planet Family Dental in Lynnwood, WA
The inlay procedure at our Lynnwood office typically requires two visits:
Preparation — Dr. Sheth removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth. The cavity is prepared with divergent walls to ensure the inlay fits securely. Digital impressions are taken and sent to the lab.
Temporary Seal — The cavity is protected with a temporary restoration while the custom inlay is being fabricated at the lab.
Fitting & Cementing — Once the lab restoration is ready, Dr. Sheth removes the temporary seal, tests the inlay for fit, and cements it permanently. All bite contacts are verified and polished for a smooth, natural feel.
Inlay Materials: Which Is Right for You?
Dr. Sheth uses several materials depending on the location of the tooth and your aesthetic preferences:
Composite Resin
Tooth-colored and affordable. Can be done in a single visit using the direct technique. Best for smaller restorations.
Porcelain / Ceramic
Highly aesthetic and durable. Color-matched to your natural teeth. Cemented with a special conditioning process for a strong bond.
Glass Ionomer
Releases fluoride to help protect against future decay. Often used in areas near the gumline or for patients at higher risk of cavities.
Gold or Metal Alloy
Extremely durable and long-lasting. Best for back teeth where strength is the priority over aesthetics.
Are Dental Inlays Right for You? Schedule a Consultation in Lynnwood, WA
If you think you might be a good candidate for an inlay or onlay, Dr. Sheth at Planet Family Dental would be happy to evaluate your teeth and walk you through the options. We take digital impressions and create custom restorations that fit precisely and look natural.
Planet Family Dental accepts most major PPO insurance plans, and our Membership Plan includes discounts on restorative treatments. We serve patients from Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, Shoreline, and surrounding areas near Alderwood Mall.
💡 Inlay vs. Filling vs. Crown — Not Sure Which You Need?
Dr. Sheth will examine your tooth and recommend the most conservative option that provides lasting results. Call Planet Family Dental at (425) XXX-XXXX to schedule your evaluation.
Related Services at Planet Family Dental
Need a Dental Restoration?
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Dr. Megha V. Sheth, D.D.S.
Dentist & Owner at Planet Family Dental in Lynnwood, WA. Dr. Sheth provides conservative restorative dentistry, preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible.