Inlays & Onlays Houston TX

Dental Repair: 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 , 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 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.

Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure

At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed. Dr. McRay or Dr. Robbins 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 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.

Get the smile you've always wanted!

For more information about inlays and onlays or to schedule a consultation with Dr. McRay or Dr. Robbins, call our office in Houston, TX at The Dentists at Houston Westchase Phone Number 832-830-8226 or

The Dentists at Houston Westchase

5 out of 5 stars based on 66 Inlays & Onlays reviews

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

The office truly showed service and commitment by caring and creating compassionate and personalized cared. "While science and technology have probably saved millions of lives" , The fact of the matter of KINDNESS and COMPASSION your office has shown have probably saved more.

- Molly W

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Athletics dreaming to be in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Spain had the motto, “No pain, no Spain”. Dr. Brett McRay practiced his own motto on me in the dental chair, “Very little pain in Arthur’s brain (or gums) during my teeth numbing procedure. I have a lot of teeth problems, but he uses the best protocols for my particular problems.

- Arthur T

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr Heather was the kindest dentist I have met in houston so far. I went in with severe tooth discomfort after a cap done elsewhere. As a person with no much knowledge on the tooth issues, doctor here gave me complete information and discussed the treatment plan on detail in a way I could understand. Really loved the way on how they delicately handled my tooth ( my previous experience with other dentists around was not very comforting ). Thanks a lot team for being the kind people you are.

- Rashmi V

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I saw Dr McRay and his team today for an emergency visit, I was so surprised that they did way more than just take ex rays and come up with a plan to fix the problem. They did all that, and a lot more.. I received a deep cleaning and an extraction; on my first visit! They took the time to go over all of my choices for today's treatment, and for future treatments. I can't say that I've ever been excited to see the dentist... until now... My visit today was totally painless, and they even let me watch Netflix while they were doing all the work! I left with all the instructions that I needed, a goody bag, and an appointment for my next visit!

- Shelly F

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

This is by far the very best practice I have ever had the pleasure of working with. The staff is amazing and Dr. McRay is exceptional. I will continue to travel from outside the state for this practice.

- M. Susan P

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I am new to the Houston area. I had a lot of difficulty finding good dental care. I could not ask for more competent, caring professionalsas are provided at Westchase. I am certain that I made the right choice.

- Helen. G

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I have recommended a number of my friends, family and co-workers to come and see what it's like to experience excellence at the dentist! The practice is not only beautiful, but calming and comfortable too. The staff are friendly, kind, and really make you feel like you are the only patient they have. You will really be listened to, and treated with the utmost of respect and professionalism. If you have been looking for a dentist, give them a try, you won't be disappointed.

- Nicola R

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

My experience at The Dentist at Houston Westchase has been exceptional. My treatments were performed by Dr. McRay and staff, as stated in office values, in a professional, friendly, compassionate, and comprehensive manner. I have been informed of treatments and procedures needed in advance and therefore was prepared upon arrival (with normal anticipated apprehension which were laid to rest once procedure began). Dr. McRay and staff always ask if there are questions and my comfort level. Best team ever - thanks!!

- Addie H

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Happy with the attention given. Overall a very pleasant experience.

- Robert T

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

It was wonderful!

- LuAnn M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Was an easy visit. I was really worried about going to the dentist, but they were really nice and explained everything very well.

- Aimee T

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Great atmosphere & friendly staff!

- Ash M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Very thorough and great about handling my very sensitive teeth!

- Brandy D

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Easy in and out. Thanks!

- Kyle M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Best dentist visit I have been to. Everybody is very friendly and very thorough throughout the entire process

- Eboni M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Great service!

- Malonie S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Very nice visit

- Mary W

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Great office & very polite staff & doctors . This was the best & least painful cleaning ever , glad to have found my new dentist.

- Ayanna L

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Awesome service I hate the dentist but he made it comfortable

- Matthew S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Great first impression. Very convenient and timely.

- Jana C

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