Inlays & Onlays

What Are Inlays?

An inlay is a custom-made filling that is used to repair teeth affected by decay or damage. Inlays are made from composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain and are crafted by a professional dental laboratory. Once created, the inlay is permanently cemented into place by your dentist.

Inlays are ideal for repairing large, defective fillings or teeth weakened by decay. They are more conservative than crowns because they require less tooth structure to be removed during preparation.

Inlays provide several benefits, including:

• Less tooth structure is removed compared to crowns.

• Highly durable and can last many years.

• Designed to match the color of your natural teeth for a seamless, aesthetic restoration.

• Long-term solution for damaged teeth.

What Does Getting an Inlay Involve?

The inlay procedure typically requires two appointments:

1. During this visit, your dentist will numb the area and remove any decay or old fillings. The space will be thoroughly cleaned and shaped to fit the inlay properly. A highly accurate impression will be taken, and a temporary restoration will be placed while your custom inlay is created in a dental laboratory.

2. Once your inlay is ready, your dentist will carefully cement it into place. Adjustments may be made to ensure a proper fit and comfortable bite. You will be given care instructions, and regular dental visits will help maintain the longevity of your new inlay.

What Are Onlays?

An onlay is similar to an inlay but extends over one or more of the tooth’s chewing cusps. Onlays, also called partial crowns, are ideal for teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma but still have enough healthy tooth structure to support a less-invasive restoration.

Like inlays, onlays are made from composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain. They are custom-crafted in a dental laboratory and permanently cemented into place by your dentist.

Onlays offer many of the same benefits as inlays, but they are ideal for more extensive damage. Here are some reasons to choose an onlay:

• Preserve more of the natural tooth structure than crowns do.

• Designed to match your teeth's color, providing a seamless, natural appearance.

• Durable and provide long-lasting protection for damaged teeth.

• Ideal for chewing surfaces.

What Does Getting an Onlay Involve?

Similar to the inlay process, getting an onlay typically requires two visits:

1. Your dentist will numb the tooth and remove any decay or existing fillings. The tooth will be shaped to fit the custom onlay, and a precise impression will be taken. A temporary restoration will be placed until the custom onlay is ready.

2. The permanent onlay will be cemented into place. Your dentist will make adjustments to ensure that the fit and bite are perfect.