Inlays & Onlays
When more than half of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged a dentist will often use an inlay or onlay.
What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay, which is similar to a filling, is used inside the cusp tips of the tooth. An onlay is a more substantial reconstruction, similar to the inlay but extending out over one or more of the cusps of the tooth.
Traditionally, gold has been the material of choice for inlays and onlays. In recent years, however, porcelain has become increasingly popular due to its strength and color, which can potentially match the natural color of your teeth.
How are inlays and onlays applied?
Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure. During the first visit, the filling being replaced or the damaged or decaying area of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the inlay or onlay. To ensure proper fit and bite, an impression of the tooth is made by the dentist, and sent to a lab for fabrication. The dentist will then apply a temporary sealant on the tooth and schedule the next appointment.
At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed. Dr. Kiesling, Dr. McLellan or Dr. Johnson will then make sure that the inlay or onlay fits correctly. If the fit is satisfactory, the inlay or onlay will be bonded to the tooth with a strong resin and polished to a smooth finish.
Considerations for inlays and onlays
Traditional fillings can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50 percent. As an alternative, inlays and onlays, which are bonded directly onto the tooth using special high-strength resins, can actually increase the strength of a tooth by up to 75 percent. As a result, they can last from 10 to 30 years. In some cases, where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to merit an entire crown, onlays can provide a very good alternative.
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Associated Dental Care of Helena
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This office is awesome! The people here work so well with you and your schedule. The workmanship is also great by Ingrid!
- June M
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Always very professional~Thanks Ingrid and Mary!
- Susan C
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I love Associated Dental Care! Everyone is so kind, I receive wonderful service.
- Shandee C
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I have had really bad experiences with the dentist office and I have been to many offices in different states due to moving around in the military. This office was the only one that made me feel comfortable and at ease. I will be recommending this place to anyone who is looking for a dentist.
- Natashia J
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I love the amazing folks in this office! I have never been treated better as a patient. Every possible need is met.
- Jennifer H
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My experience at Associated Dental Care of Helena has been a treat. And that's saying something because, you know, it's the "Dentists Office" after all....! My wife had been seen there on several occasions, and when I moved to Helena she recommended that I see her dentist, Dr. Ingrid McLellan, when it came time to do so. Dr. McLellan was a delight to chat with, and was very thorough in explaining procedures and answering the questions I had. Her 'chairside manner' was wonderful, as well as that of her Dental Assitant, Mary. For the implant I'd chosen (to replace a broken tooth), I then saw Dr. Brandon Kiesling. If I'd thought my very positive experience with Dr. McLellan was a fluke, that thought was short-lived. Dr. Kiesling immediately demonstrated a wonderful manner as well, and was also a delight to chat with. Regarding the many technical details of the implant procedure it was reassuring to see that Dr. Kiesling, although a younger dentist, had done this many times before. In fact I would say that 'quiet competence' is what distinguishes the staff here, in my mind, from some other dental offices I've visited. As a patient, this is a great feeling to have. Then one can simply relax, let these obviously very caring professionals do their work, and see how many times you can get them to laugh at your frequently awful jokes 🙂 P.S. - Cleanings with Dental Hygienist Amy have been not only educational for me (down to who's having a sale on the best SonicCare Toothbrush!), but just as pleasant as every other office visit I've had there. Amy has a very tender manner, and touch. Likely, I think, to be quite compatible and reassuring even to those with anxiety about 'going to the dentist'. Great job, Associated Dental Care of Helena! I will recommend you all to anyone I know who is in need of kind, competent dental care 🙂
- Michael C
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Dr. Brandon Kiesling and staff at Associated Dental Care have been very good to me in taking care of all my dental needs.
- Debbie A
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My teeth are smiling!! Thank you for the care. I especially like the long-range personal plan. Nice to know my teeth will remain in good stead for my lifetime. Betsy
- Betsy P
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Hygienist, Jil, was professional as well as caring and interested in what was happening with my experience as she cleaned my teeth.
- Susan R
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I would recommend Associated Dental to everyone. They will listen to your concerns and are caring and gentle. Dr. Ingrid McLellan is the best when administering anesthesia
- Kelly D
Our Latest Review
I was a patient here for several years before leaving the area and living in WA state for almost 5 years. When I returned to Helena, I didn't think twice about returning to Assoc. Dental Care. I have never known a more honest, caring professional group of folks as these individuals who work here. Their skills and knowledge of dentistry are (well above) excellent! They provide state-of-the-art procedures and are all up-to-date on current methods. A patient is in very good hands with these folks. I highly sing their praises!!!
- Donna L
Our Latest Review
This office was recommended by a friend when we first moved here. We haven't considered going anywhere else, even though they don't happen to be in our insurance plan's network of doctors. Face it, you'll have scary bills no matter where you go; here at ADCH you don't have to have scary dental care!
- cheryl m
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Wonderful people-I never feel any discomfort. Dr. Ingrid McLellan always tells me what she is doing. This place is the best!
- Sue K
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GREAT SERVICE!
- Stan C
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I have had over 30 years of compassionate care. They are great!
- Sharon F
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My dentist is Dr. Ingrid McLellan--absolutely wonderful!
- Gary J
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Associated Dental Care of Helena, PLLC has been my dental care home, and that of my family for over 30 years now. Beginning with Dr. David Kiesling and now transitioned to Dr. Ingrid McLellan. I have received excellent dental care in all kinds of teeth situations. It is like coming to see friends-friends who are professional in all matters. I appreciate this office and the changes it has gone through over the years! Gail M.
- Gail M
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Amazing work with excellent results. Quick and as painless as possible. I would recommend Allen G. Johnson, DDS to anyone.
- Shawn W
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Dr. Allen Johnson is great! He is very respectful of his patient, takes the time to sit and listen to your dental concerns and provides excellent feedback. I had extensive work done, including cosmetic changes and Dr. Allen was excellent throughout the entire process. I'm extremely pleased with the results and recommend him highly!!
- Jim H
Our Latest Review
Dr. Roger was recommended to me my three very satisfied patients. I was hesitant because I have had very few dentists and all were for repairs that were expensive and unpleasant. Never did find a dental "home" until now. I firmly believe they care about my teeth and me. The results of my work are amazing....can't believe they're my formerly unappealing, desperate teeth! I would recommend my family or best friends to Dr. Roger....that is just how thrilled I am to have found him. I no longer have dental-phobia and that is truly a blessing for my poor teeth. Thank you Dr. Roger Keisling and his wonderful assistant Cindy who was a joy to work with.
- Carol L