What are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays can be placed within or on top of your tooth to restore it to its original size and shape. Unlike fillings, inlays and onlays are custom-made to fit the tooth perfectly while still looking completely natural. These restorations are a mixture between a filling and a dental crown. They are often needed when a filling isn’t enough and a full dental crown isn’t necessary.

Why might Inlays and Onlays be needed?

There are a few reasons for needing either an inlay or an onlay. Many of our patients prefer these restorations because of the fact that they can last for decades before requiring replacement. Some of the reasons you’d need an inlay or onlay include:

• A tooth has broken or cracked only on the very top
• An older filling has to be replaced
• You have an area of deep decay
• You’re looking for a restoration that is more customized and durable

Who is a candidate for Inlays and Onlays?

To determine if an inlay or onlay is needed, we will examine your teeth. This involves checking older fillings that may need to be replaced as well as looking for cracks, fractures and breaks. If you need an inlay or onlay, we suggest having the restoration placed as soon as possible. This helps to prevent further damage to the tooth.

What happens during the procedure for Inlays and Onlays?

We’ll clear away any old filling or decay from the tooth itself. If there’s a crack or break within the tooth, we smooth it out so that it does not get worse. Impressions are then taken and used to make the inlay or onlay for you. Inlays are designed to sit inside the inner cusps of a tooth while the onlay sits over the very top of the tooth. We then place the restoration at a subsequent appointment and adjust the way that it feels. You can then benefit from a restoration that looks natural and restores beauty and functionality to your smile.

If you want to learn more about both inlays and onlays, call us today so that we can help to answer any questions you may have regarding treatment.