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Strengthen and Restore Your Teeth with Precision-Made, Long-Lasting Solutions
Inlays & Onlays in Palo Alto, CA
When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but not quite in need of a crown, inlays and onlays offer a strong, conservative alternative. At Denise Henderson DDS, we use these custom restorations to repair teeth with minimal removal of healthy structure—preserving your natural smile while restoring strength and aesthetics.
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Patients across Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Los Altos, and Stanford trust our practice for modern, high-quality restorative care designed to last.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations crafted from durable materials like porcelain, composite resin, or zirconia. They are bonded to the tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function.
- Inlays fit within the grooves of a tooth’s chewing surface and do not extend over the cusps.
- Onlays cover one or more cusps and are sometimes referred to as “partial crowns.”
Both options provide an excellent solution for teeth with moderate decay, fractures, or large, failing fillings—especially when you want to avoid a full dental crown.
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When Are Inlays or Onlays Recommended?
These restorations are ideal for patients who:
- Have damage that’s too extensive for a traditional filling
- Want a more conservative alternative to full crowns
- Need to replace large, worn, or broken fillings
- Desire a more natural-looking and durable solution
Dr. Denise Henderson will evaluate your tooth and recommend the best approach based on your level of damage, your bite, and your long-term oral health goals.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
- Preserve more natural tooth structure than crowns
- Highly durable and resistant to wear
- Custom-matched to your tooth color for natural aesthetics
- Less likely to stain than composite fillings
- Designed for longevity, often lasting 10–15 years or longer with proper care
- Improved fit and strength compared to traditional fillings
Because they are fabricated outside the mouth in a dental lab or with advanced CAD/CAM technology, inlays and onlays offer superior precision and customization.
The Treatment Process
- Consultation and Diagnosis
Dr. Henderson will perform a detailed exam, including digital X-rays and intraoral scans, to determine the extent of damage and whether an inlay or onlay is the best choice. - Tooth Preparation
The damaged or decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the area is cleaned and shaped to receive the restoration. - Impression or Scan
We take a digital impression using advanced technology to create a 3D model of your tooth. - Custom Fabrication
Your inlay or onlay is crafted from a strong, aesthetic material and precisely designed to fit your tooth. - Bonding and Finishing
Once ready, the restoration is securely bonded in place and polished for a smooth, comfortable fit.
Some cases may be completed in one visit using in-office digital dentistry, while others may require a short wait while your custom piece is fabricated.
Caring for Inlays and Onlays
These restorations are strong, but good oral hygiene is still key to their long-term success. To keep them in great shape:
- Brush and floss daily, especially around the gumline
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Avoid biting on ice or extremely hard objects
- Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth
We’ll monitor your restoration over time and make any adjustments as needed.
Why Choose Denise Henderson DDS for Restorative Dentistry?
Dr. Denise Henderson offers a balance of modern precision and compassionate care. With over a decade serving the Palo Alto community, she provides restorative solutions that prioritize the health, strength, and appearance of your smile.
Our practice features:
- Digital imaging and intraoral scanning for more accurate treatment
- High-quality materials for durability and aesthetics
- A patient-first approach to education and treatment planning
- Comfort-focused care in a friendly, supportive environment
Whether you're repairing one tooth or looking to restore function to your bite, our goal is to help you feel confident and cared for every step of the way.
Restore Your Smile with Strength and Subtlety
If you have a damaged or worn tooth that needs more than a filling but less than a crown, inlays and onlays may be the perfect fit. Durable, beautiful, and minimally invasive—they offer a long-lasting solution with excellent results.
Call (650) 327-4755 or schedule a consultation online to learn more about inlays and onlays at Denise Henderson DDS in Palo Alto.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
They are often stronger and longer-lasting than large fillings, especially in areas with heavy chewing forces.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With proper care, they can last 10–15 years or longer. Material choice, oral hygiene, and bite pressure all play a role.
Is the procedure painful?
The process is comfortable and often requires only local anesthesia. Patients generally return to their normal routine the same day.
Are they covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans provide partial coverage. We’ll help verify your benefits and provide a clear estimate before treatment begins.
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Rebuild with Confidence. Smile with Strength.
At Denise Henderson DDS, we believe restorative dentistry should not only repair your teeth—it should restore your confidence. If you're dealing with decay, old fillings, or damage that needs attention, inlays and onlays offer a reliable, natural-looking solution that protects your smile for the long haul.