When a tooth is too damaged for a regular filling but not damaged enough to require a full crown, an inlay restoration offers the perfect middle ground. Custom-made in a professional dental lab, inlays restore strength, shape, and function to a tooth while preserving as much of the natural structure as possible.

At Peak Dental Utah, we use advanced materials and precision techniques to create inlays that blend beautifully with your natural teeth — providing long-lasting strength and protection.

What Is an Inlay Restoration?

An inlay is a custom-fitted filling made from durable materials such as porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Unlike traditional fillings, which are molded directly into the tooth, inlays are fabricated outside the mouth and then bonded into place.

This process allows for a more precise fit, greater durability, and improved aesthetics — making inlays an excellent choice for restoring teeth with moderate decay, cracks, or large, defective fillings.

Why Choose an Inlay Over a Filling or Crown?

Inlays are designed to be stronger and more conservative than traditional fillings and less invasive than crowns. They restore the damaged portion of a tooth without removing unnecessary healthy enamel.

Common reasons for an inlay restoration include:
• Repairing broken or fractured teeth
• Replacing large or failing fillings
• Treating moderate tooth decay
• Cosmetic improvement of tooth color or shape
• Strengthening a tooth while preserving natural structure

What to Expect During Treatment

Getting an inlay usually takes two appointments unless using a same-day system like CEREC®.

First Appointment:

• The tooth is numbed, and any decay or old filling is removed.

• The area is cleaned and shaped to fit the custom inlay.

• A detailed impression is taken and sent to a dental laboratory for fabrication.

• A temporary filling is placed to protect your tooth until your next visit.

Second Appointment:

• The temporary filling is removed, and the new inlay is carefully fitted and permanently cemented in place.

• Your dentist checks your bite to ensure comfort and a perfect seal.

• Once completed, your tooth will look natural, feel strong, and function just like new.

Caring for Your New Inlay

Inlays are highly durable and can last 10–20 years or more with good oral hygiene. Brush and floss daily, avoid biting hard objects, and maintain regular dental checkups to keep your restoration in great condition.

Restore Strength and Beauty to Your Smile

If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, an inlay restoration can provide strength, protection, and a natural look — all while preserving your healthy tooth structure.

At Peak Dental Utah, our skilled team uses precision technology and high-quality materials to deliver lasting, natural-looking results.

Schedule your consultation today to learn if an inlay restoration is right for you.