Inlays & Onlays

What are dental inlays and onlays?

When more than half of the tooth’s biting surface is damaged, a dentist will often use an inlay or onlay to fix it. An inlay, which is similar to a dental filling, 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.

Inlays and onlays can be made of gold, porcelain, or composite resin. These pieces are bonded to the damaged area 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 matched to the natural color of your teeth to make them unnoticeable for an aesthetically pleasing effect.

Inlays and only are useful for the following:

  • Repairing broken, fractured, or decayed teeth
  • Repairing fractured fillings
  • For larger fillings
  • For cosmetic enhancement

How are inlays and onlays applied?

Inlays and onlays require two appointments to complete the procedure. During the first visit, the filling 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.

At the second appointment, the temporary sealant is removed. Dr. Harris or Dr. Saleemuddin 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 fillings can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50%. 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%. As a result, they can last from 10–30 years. In some cases, where the damage to the tooth is not extensive enough to merit an entire dental crown, onlays can provide a very good alternative.

Feel free to call us at 508-584-6070 if you’re interested in learning more about Inlays and Onlays or you think they might be a good option for you.