Understanding Inlays, Onlays, and Crowns: Which Is Right for Your Tooth Restoration?

When it comes to restoring damaged teeth, choosing the right treatment can make all the difference for your long-term oral health. At Juban Cowen Dental Care in Baton Rouge, LA, we specialize in conservative, high-quality restorations, including inlays, onlays, and crowns. Each option serves a unique purpose, and our expert team can help you decide which one best fits your needs.

What Are Inlays, Onlays, and Crowns?

All three options are designed to repair damaged or decayed teeth, but they differ in terms of how much tooth structure they cover and when they are used:

• Inlays: These fit within the grooves of a tooth and are used when the damage or decay is limited to the center of the tooth surface. Inlays are ideal when a traditional filling isn’t strong enough, but a full crown isn’t necessary.
• Onlays: Sometimes called “partial crowns,” onlays cover more of the tooth than inlays, including one or more cusps. They’re used when the damage extends beyond the center but doesn’t require full coverage.
• Crowns: A crown, or “cap,” covers the entire visible portion of the tooth. It’s recommended when a tooth is significantly weakened, cracked, or after a root canal procedure. Crowns restore both function and aesthetics.

When to Choose Each Restoration

When deciding whether a crown, inlay or onlay is right for a tooth restoration, consider:

• Choose an inlay when the tooth has mild to moderate decay and the surrounding tooth structure is intact.
• Choose an onlay when decay or damage includes the tooth’s cusps but a full crown would remove too much healthy enamel.
• Choose a crown when the tooth is badly decayed, fractured, or has undergone root canal therapy.

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, over 2.3 million implant-supported crowns are manufactured annually in the U.S., with traditional crowns remaining one of the most common restorative procedures.

Benefits of Modern Restorations

All three restorations at our Baton Rouge dental office are made from high-strength, tooth-colored materials such as porcelain or zirconia. These options offer:

• Durability and longevity
• A natural appearance
• Better protection for the remaining tooth
• Resistance to staining and wear

Our advanced dental technology, including digital scanning and CAD/CAM systems, ensures precise, comfortable, and efficient restorations tailored to your exact bite and smile.

Serving the Baton Rouge Community with Expert Restorative Care

At Juban Cowen Dental Care, we’ve helped countless patients in Baton Rouge, Prairieville, and Denham Springs restore their smiles with inlays, onlays, and crowns. Our experienced dentists take a conservative approach, preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible while delivering strong, long-lasting results.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or have been told you need a restoration, schedule a visit with Juban Cowen Dental Care in Baton Rouge. We’ll evaluate your tooth’s condition and recommend the best solution—whether that’s an inlay, onlay, or crown—to restore your smile’s health and strength.