Diamondback Dentistry

Dental Inlays and Onlays in North Phoenix

When a tooth needs more than a filling but less than a crown, a custom inlay or onlay rebuilds it and saves more of your natural tooth. Gentle, judgment-free care from Dr. Owtad, with a written estimate before we begin.
Restorative Dentistry

What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

A dental inlay or onlay is a custom restoration that repairs a tooth too damaged for a simple filling but still healthy enough to avoid a full crown. At Diamondback Dentistry in North Phoenix, it is crafted to fit your tooth, then bonded in place to rebuild the chewing surface and protect what is left of your natural tooth.

  • Repairs more than a filling can Restores a tooth with decay or damage that is too large for a standard filling.
  • Saves more of your natural tooth Removes less healthy tooth structure than a full dental crown does.
  • Restores comfortable chewing Rebuilds the biting surface so you can eat normally on that side again.
  • Looks like your own tooth Porcelain or ceramic, shaped and shaded to blend in with the teeth around it.
  • Bonded securely in place Cemented to the tooth and fixed day and night, with nothing to take out to clean.
  • Most PPO plans accepted We verify your benefits for free and give you a written estimate first.

New to Diamondback Dentistry? Start with our $19 new patient exam and meet Dr. Owtad.

Gentle, judgment-free care
Patient smiling during a restorative dentistry consultation at Diamondback Dentistry in North Phoenix

Cracked or worn tooth?

We will look at the tooth, explain whether an inlay, onlay, or crown fits best, and give you a written estimate with no surprises.

Book Appointment
What to Expect

The Inlay and Onlay Process at Diamondback

Most inlays and onlays are completed in two visits. We numb the area with local anesthesia so the appointment stays comfortable, and we explain each step before we begin.

Step 1

Exam and Plan

We examine the damaged tooth, take images as needed, and confirm whether an inlay, onlay, or crown is the right fit. You get a clear written estimate, and if you have insurance, a breakdown of what we expect it to cover before anything starts.

Step 2

Prepare and Scan

We gently remove the decay or old filling and shape the tooth, take a precise impression or digital scan, and place a temporary so you can eat and smile while your custom restoration is crafted.

Step 3

Bond It in Place

At the second visit we check the fit, color, and bite, then bond your finished inlay or onlay to the tooth. We show you how to care for it so it lasts as long as possible.

Treatment Options

Types of Inlays and Onlays: Porcelain, Composite, or Gold

Not every tooth needs the same material. Dr. Owtad looks at where the tooth sits, how much bite force it takes, and how visible it is to recommend the inlay or onlay that fits your smile and your budget. If a tooth is too damaged for either, he may suggest a dental crown instead.

Porcelain or Ceramic

Most Popular Tooth-colored

A tooth-colored restoration shaded to match the teeth around it. The most common choice for a natural look that holds up to everyday chewing.

  • Blends in with your natural teeth
  • Resists everyday staining
  • Strong enough for back teeth
  • Custom-shaded to match
  • PPO plans accepted, verified free

Best for teeth that show when you smile.

Book a consultation

Composite Inlay or Onlay

Budget-Friendly Tooth-colored

A tooth-colored resin option that restores the tooth at a lower cost than porcelain or gold, while still blending in.

  • Tooth-colored finish
  • Often the most affordable option
  • Conserves natural tooth
  • Conserves natural tooth
  • Written estimate before we start

Best when you want a tooth-colored repair on a budget.

Book a consultation

Gold Inlay or Onlay

Most Durable Long-lasting

A time-tested metal option known for lasting many years. Gentle on the opposing teeth and very strong, though it is not tooth-colored.

  • Among the longest-lasting choices
  • Very gentle on opposing teeth
  • Stands up to heavy chewing
  • Precise, comfortable fit
  • PPO plans accepted, verified free

Best for out-of-sight back teeth where durability matters most.

Book a consultation
Your Process

Your Inlay or Onlay in 3 Steps

From your first exam to the day we bond your final restoration, every step is built around saving your natural tooth and keeping you comfortable.

01

Exam and Digital Scan

We examine the tooth, take a digital X-ray or scan to see how much damage there is, and explain whether an inlay, onlay, or crown is the right fit.

02

Prepare and Protect

We numb the area with local anesthesia, with anti-anxiety medication available on request, remove the decay or old filling, and place a temporary while your custom restoration is crafted.

03

Bond and Aftercare

At your second visit we check the fit and bite, bond your finished inlay or onlay in place, and send you home with simple care tips so it lasts as long as possible.

Patient Special

$19 New Patient Exam in Phoenix, See If an Inlay or Onlay Is Right for You

Cracked or worn tooth and weighing your options? Start with our $19 new patient exam, including X-rays and an oral cancer screening, so Dr. Owtad can look at the tooth and tell you exactly what your smile needs.

You'll leave with a clear diagnosis, a written treatment plan, and financing options if an inlay or onlay is recommended.

Claim Your $19 Exam
Comfortable treatment room at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix

Includes X-rays and oral cancer screening

Why Diamondback

Why North Phoenix Patients Trust Diamondback for Inlays and Onlays

From your first exam to the day we bond your restoration, our focus is comfortable visits, honest pricing, and an inlay or onlay that fits well and lasts.

  • Transparent, upfront pricing You get the full cost of your inlay or onlay in writing before we begin, with no surprise bills.
  • Gentle, judgment-free care Whether it has been six months or six years, you are welcome here, with anti-anxiety medication available on request.
  • Most PPO plans accepted We verify your benefits for free, file your claims for you, and explain what your plan covers.
  • Everything under one roof Inlays, onlays, crowns, and implants in one North Phoenix office, so you are not bounced between practices.
Dr. Owtad and the entire staff are so friendly and easy to work with. No judgement, very fair prices, excellent work. Highly recommend this office.
Sandra L., Google review
Insurance & Financing

Most PPO Dental Plans Accepted for Inlays and Onlays

Many PPO plans cover a portion of an inlay or onlay as a restorative service after your deductible. We verify your benefits for free before treatment. Call (602) 866-8183 to confirm what your plan covers.

  • Principal dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix
  • UnitedHealthcare dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix
  • Ameritas dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix
  • Guardian dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix
  • United Concordia dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix
  • GEHA Connection Dental federal coverage accepted at Diamondback Dentistry
  • Sun Life dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix
  • Humana dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix
  • Delta Dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry
  • MetLife dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix
  • Cigna Healthcare dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix
  • Aetna dental insurance accepted at Diamondback Dentistry in Phoenix

No Insurance? Spread the Cost with CareCredit

CareCredit lets you cover your inlay or onlay in manageable monthly payments, including plans with no interest if paid in full within a promotional period. You can prequalify with no impact to your credit.

Apply with CareCredit

Subject to credit approval.

Our Patients

What Patients Say About Diamondback Dentistry

stars
My wife and I have been seeing Dr Owtad for nearly 10 years and he has truly taken care of us with unmatchable integrity!!!
J. O.
Founder & CEO
stars
We love this place, they have taken such good care of my husbands dental needs. We greatly appreciate them and their friendly staff. I will be making an appt next. Highly recommended.
M.J.
Founder & CEO
stars
The staff was very friendly and welcoming, both on the phone and in the office. Dr. Owtad was professional, knowledgeable, and took the time to ensure I felt comfortable and well-informed.
N.W.
Founder & CEO
FAQ

Inlay and Onlay Questions, Answered

Answers to what North Phoenix patients ask most about inlays and onlays. Do not see your question? Call (602) 866-8183 and we will help.

How much do inlays and onlays cost in Phoenix?

The cost of an inlay or onlay in Phoenix depends on the material and how much of the tooth needs repair. Because that range is wide, Diamondback Dentistry gives you a written estimate before treatment begins and reviews what your plan covers. Call (602) 866-8183 for a quote specific to your tooth.

How long do inlays and onlays last?

With good daily care and regular checkups, most inlays and onlays last 10 years or more, and many last far longer. How long yours lasts depends on the material, the health of the tooth underneath, and how well you keep it and the gumline clean. We will show you how to care for it.

What is the difference between an inlay and an onlay?

Both repair a tooth that is too damaged for a filling but does not need a full crown. An inlay fits within the cusps, the raised points on the chewing surface. An onlay covers one or more of those cusps as well. At our North Phoenix office, Dr. Owtad confirms which one fits your tooth.

Are inlays and onlays covered by insurance?

Many PPO dental plans cover a portion of an inlay or onlay as a restorative service after your deductible, but coverage varies by plan. Diamondback Dentistry accepts most major PPO plans and verifies your benefits for free before your visit. Call (602) 866-8183 and we will confirm what your specific plan covers.

Is an inlay or onlay better than a filling or a crown?

It depends on how much of the tooth is damaged. An inlay or onlay is stronger and longer-lasting than a large filling, and it keeps more natural tooth than a full crown. When damage is more extensive, a crown may be the better fit. Dr. Owtad reviews your options in North Phoenix.

Does getting an inlay or onlay hurt?

Getting an inlay or onlay should not hurt. We numb the area with local anesthesia so the visit stays comfortable, and most patients feel only mild pressure. If you feel anxious, local anesthesia with anti-anxiety medication is available on request. Tell us your concerns when you book and we will plan around your comfort.

How do I take care of an inlay or onlay?

Care for an inlay or onlay by brushing twice a day, flossing around it daily, and keeping your regular checkups so we can monitor the tooth. Avoid chewing very hard items like ice on that side at first. Good home care and routine visits help your restoration last for many years.

Dr. Pouria Owtad answering a patient's questions about inlays and onlays in his North Phoenix office

Still have questions?

We are happy to talk it through. Call (602) 866-8183 or book a visit and we will walk you through your options.

Book an appointment

Office Hours

Monday – Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Friday – Sunday: Closed

Areas We Serve

North Phoenix, Deer Valley, Peoria, Moon Valley, Glendale, and surrounding North Valley neighborhoods.