Inlays & Onlays in New Orleans
Custom-crafted, tooth-colored restorations that are stronger and more beautiful than traditional fillings, placed by Reza Edalati, DDS, MS — a prosthodontist with specialty training in restorative dentistry.
What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are used instead of fillings to replace tooth structure lost to decay or damage. They are fabricated in a dental lab from ceramic, porcelain, or composite, then bonded to the tooth — the ideal middle ground between a filling and a full crown.
Inlay or onlay?
The difference explained- Inlay: fits inside the tooth, for decay or damage in the central part of the tooth
- Onlay: extends over one or more cusps, for larger damage covering part of the chewing surface
- Both are custom-fabricated in a lab rather than shaped in your mouth
- Both bond to the tooth, sealing and strengthening it
- Both are tooth-colored for a natural result
Consider an inlay or onlay if you…
Common reasons patients choose them- Have a broken tooth or a large, failing silver filling
- Want to replace amalgam fillings with something more natural-looking
- Have decay too large for a regular filling but not yet needing a full crown
- Want a restoration that strengthens and seals the tooth rather than just filling it
- Are looking for a long-lasting, durable solution that looks completely natural
How inlays and onlays compare
An inlay or onlay preserves more of your natural tooth than a crown while offering more strength than a filling.
| Feature | Inlay / onlay | Filling | Crown |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural appearance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Strengthens the tooth | Yes | No | Yes |
| Preserves tooth structure | Yes | Yes | No |
| Lab-fabricated precision | Yes | No | Yes |
| Suits large decay or damage | Yes | No | Yes |
Your inlay or onlay journey, step by step
Typically just two comfortable appointments from start to a restored, beautiful tooth.
Consultation
Dr. Edalati examines your tooth, takes X-rays, and determines whether an inlay, onlay, filling, or crown is your best option, explaining all the choices before treatment begins.
Preparation
The damaged or decayed tooth structure is removed and the tooth prepared. A precision impression is taken and a temporary restoration protects the tooth.
Lab fabrication
Your restoration is custom-fabricated from high-quality ceramic, porcelain, or composite, crafted to match your tooth’s shape, size, and color precisely.
Bonding
The inlay or onlay is fitted, adjusted for a perfect bite, and bonded permanently. The bonding seals and strengthens the tooth.
Inlays and onlays that fit your budget
Cost depends on the material chosen and how many teeth are treated. You get upfront, transparent pricing with no hidden fees before treatment begins, and CareCredit financing is available.
Why choose Dr. Edalati for inlays and onlays?
Prosthodontist specialist
Dr. Edalati is a prosthodontist, the ADA-recognized specialist for restorative dentistry. That training matters when deciding whether a filling, inlay, onlay, or crown is genuinely right for your tooth.
Conservative by design
An inlay or onlay preserves more of your natural tooth than a crown. Where that is the better option for you, it is the one recommended.
Affordable & transparent
Upfront pricing with no hidden fees, and CareCredit financing to keep treatment accessible.
Reza Edalati, DDS, MS
Dr. Edalati is a prosthodontist, the dental specialist the ADA recognizes for crowns, bridges, and complex restorations. He earned his DDS from Mashhad University of Medical Sciences and completed his specialty in Prosthodontics at LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans.
He further completed an MSc in Esthetic & Restorative Dentistry at the University of Manchester. With over 20,000 patients treated and more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Edalati combines conservative treatment planning with precise craftsmanship, preserving as much natural tooth as possible while restoring full strength.
- Inlays, onlays & tooth restorations
- Dental implants & full mouth rehabilitation
- Prosthodontics — LSU School of Dentistry, New Orleans
- MSc Esthetic & Restorative Dentistry — University of Manchester
Inlay and onlay questions, answered
What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?
An inlay fits inside the tooth, within the cusps. An onlay extends over one or more cusps to cover part of the chewing surface, so it suits larger areas of damage.
Why choose an inlay or onlay over a filling?
They are lab-fabricated for a precise fit, and they bond to the tooth in a way that seals and strengthens it rather than simply filling a hole. That makes them a better choice for larger cavities.
How many appointments does it take?
Usually two. The tooth is prepared and an impression taken at the first visit with a temporary in place, then the finished restoration is bonded at the second.
Will it look natural?
Yes. Inlays and onlays are made from tooth-colored ceramic, porcelain, or composite and are matched to the shape, size, and color of your tooth.
How much do inlays and onlays cost?
It depends on the material and the number of teeth treated. You receive upfront pricing at your consultation, with CareCredit financing available.
