Custom Dental Onlays/Inlays in Vancouver

When a tooth suffers from decay or structural damage that is too extensive for a standard filling, but not severe enough to require a full dental crown, porcelain inlays and onlays offer the perfect middle ground. At Shen Dental, Dr. Herbert Fisher provides high-strength, custom-milled inlays and onlays to restore your bite’s strength and natural beauty.

Our local Vancouver clinic prioritizes conservative dentistry, meaning we preserve as much of your healthy, natural tooth structure as possible.

Understanding the Difference: Inlays vs. Onlays

Patients often ask how these two custom restorations differ. Both function as “indirect restorations”—meaning they are precision-crafted in a dental laboratory to perfectly fit your unique tooth.

Dental Inlays: An inlay fits snugly within the deep grooves or indentations of a tooth’s chewing surface, filling the cavity without extending over the edges. Think of it as a custom-fitted, ultra-durable alternative to a large filling.
Dental Onlays: An onlay handles more extensive damage. It covers the inner grooves plus one or more of the tooth’s cusps (the raised points on the chewing surface). Because they cover a wider area, onlays are sometimes referred to as “partial crowns”.

Why Choose Inlays & Onlays Over Fillings or Crowns?

Superior Durability: Crafted from medical-grade porcelain or composite resin, inlays and onlays are exceptionally resilient to the heavy forces of chewing and typically last 10 to 15 years.
Perfect Aesthetic Match: The materials are custom-shaded to match the precise color of your surrounding teeth, making them completely indistinguishable from natural enamel.
Stronger Tooth Structure: Unlike fillings which can slightly weaken a tooth over time, porcelain onlays actually help distribute biting forces evenly, reinforcing the tooth’s physical integrity.
Easier Maintenance: Because they are custom-milled to form a perfect edge against your tooth, they prevent bacteria from slipping underneath, making them simple to brush and floss.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Restoring your tooth with an inlay or onlay is highly precise and is typically completed in two comfortable visits to our Oak Street office.

Preparation & Impression

Visit 1.

Dr. Fisher gently removes any existing decay or old filling materials and prepares the tooth structure. We take an accurate impression of your bite, which is sent to our trusted dental laboratory. Before you leave, a temporary filling or restoration is placed to protect your tooth.

Final Placement & Bonding

Visit 2.

Once your custom porcelain inlay or onlay arrives from the lab, you return to our clinic. Dr. Fisher removes the temporary layer, tests the fit and color of the new restoration, and permanently bonds it to your tooth. The tooth is then polished smooth, restoring your bite to full function.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are inlays and onlays noticeable?

Are inlays and onlays noticeable? No. Because we utilize high-quality ceramic or dental composite resin, the restoration is matched exactly to your natural tooth enamel. They are virtually invisible when you smile, speak, or chew.

Q: How long do custom dental onlays last?

With proper oral hygiene, dental inlays and onlays are incredibly long-lasting, often performing well for 10 to 15 years. Longevity depends heavily on routine brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental checkups at Shen Dental.

Q: What is the cost of an inlay or onlay in Vancouver?

The cost depends entirely on the size of the restoration, the tooth involved, and the specific material chosen (such as laboratory porcelain). To keep care accessible, all of our restorative fees strictly align with the current BC Dental Fee Guide. We will provide a comprehensive cost breakdown and pre-determination for your insurance prior to starting treatment.

Q:Does insurance or the CDCP cover onlays and inlays?

Yes, most major dental insurance plans cover inlays and onlays, though the coverage percentage can vary because they are classified as major restorative care. Shen Dental proudly participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Our team will gladly review your insurance policy or CDCP eligibility guidelines to ensure you get the maximum benefits available for your treatment.

Restore Your Smile at Shen Dental Vancouver

Don’t let a fractured or heavily decayed tooth compromise your oral health. Located at 3737 Oak St (Unit 102), Dr. Herbert Fisher and our friendly team are here to help.

to see if an inlay or onlay is right for you