The Difference Between Inlays and Onlays
The two restorations are closely related, and the right one depends on how much of the tooth is affected. Both are designed to restore strength, function, and appearance to back teeth, which handle most of the pressure when you chew. Here is how they differ.
- Inlays. An inlay fills the area between the cusps on the chewing surface, much like a custom made puzzle piece. It is used when decay or damage is contained within the center of the tooth.
- Onlays. An onlay fills the center of the tooth and also covers one or more cusps. It is used when the damage extends further and the tooth needs added protection.
During your exam, we examine the size and location of the damage, take digital images when needed, and recommend the option that preserves the most healthy tooth.
Benefits of Inlays and Onlays
Patients often choose these restorations because they combine durability with a conservative approach. A well made inlay or onlay can strengthen a weakened tooth while looking natural. Here are some of the advantages.
- Preserves healthy tooth structure. Less of your natural tooth is removed compared with a full crown.
- Strong and durable. Materials such as porcelain, ceramic, and gold hold up well to biting and chewing forces.
- A precise, custom fit. Because the restoration is made to match your tooth, it seals the area tightly and helps keep bacteria out.
- Natural looking results. Tooth colored materials blend in with the rest of your smile.
- Added support for the tooth. Bonding the restoration to the tooth can help strengthen it and reduce the risk of cracking.
- Resistance to staining. Porcelain and ceramic resist stains better than many other materials.
- Long lasting performance. With good care, many inlays and onlays last for many years.
The Path to a Perfectly Fitted Restoration
Getting an inlay or onlay usually takes two visits, which gives us time to create a restoration that fits precisely. Each step is designed to keep you comfortable and to protect the tooth along the way. Here is what you can expect.
01
Exam and Planning
We examine the tooth, take digital images if needed, and talk with you about your goals. We explain whether an inlay or an onlay is the best choice.
02
Numbing and Preparation
We numb the area with a local anesthetic, remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth, and shape it to hold the restoration. We keep as much healthy tooth as possible.
03
Impressions and Shade Selection
We take an impression of the prepared tooth and your bite, and we select a shade that matches your natural teeth. This information is used to design your custom restoration.
04
Temporary Restoration
A temporary filling protects the tooth while your permanent restoration is being made.
05
Custom Fabrication
Your inlay or onlay is crafted by a dental laboratory to match the exact shape of your tooth.
06
Fitting and Bonding
At your second visit, we remove the temporary, check the fit, color, and bite, and then bond the restoration securely to the tooth.
07
Final Polish and Bite Check
We polish the restoration and make sure your bite feels comfortable and natural.
Who Is a Candidate for an Inlay or Onlay?
Inlays and onlays are most often used on molars and premolars, where the chewing surfaces take the most wear. A thorough exam helps us confirm whether they are right for you. We look at how much healthy teeth remain, the health of the gums, and the way your teeth fit together. You may be a good candidate if any of these describe your situation.
- You have moderate decay on the chewing surface of a back tooth
- You have an old filling that needs replacement and has left too little tooth for a new filling
- You have a tooth with a crack or break that has not reached the nerve
- You want a tooth colored restoration that is stronger than a standard filling
- You want to avoid a full crown if a more conservative option will work
- You maintain good oral hygiene and keep regular dental visits
If the damage is too extensive for an inlay or onlay, we will explain why and talk through other options with you.
Understanding the Cost of Inlays and Onlays
Many patients want to know what to expect before they begin, and we are happy to walk through it. The cost depends on the material, the size of the restoration, and your dental benefits. Dental plans often cover inlays and onlays in part, although coverage levels, waiting periods, and annual maximums vary. Some plans classify them like fillings and others like crowns. Our team will review your benefits, explain your estimated costs, and answer your questions before treatment begins. We accept all dental insurance plans except Medicaid, we are in network with Delta Dental Premier, and we offer financing through Sunbit for care that insurance does not fully cover.
Protect Your Tooth Before the Damage Grows
A tooth with moderate damage will not repair itself, and waiting can lead to cracks, infection, and the need for more extensive treatment. An inlay or onlay can restore strength and function while keeping more of your natural tooth. Our team at Godfrey Dentistry in Somersworth, NH is ready to examine your tooth and explain your options. If you have a sudden toothache or a broken tooth, please see our emergency dentistry page. Schedule your visit today.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are custom made restorations that repair teeth with moderate decay or damage. An inlay fits within the grooves on the chewing surface of a tooth, while an onlay extends over one or more cusps. They are made outside the mouth from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, composite resin, or gold, and they are bonded to the tooth. Because they preserve more healthy tooth structure than a crown, they are often called a conservative restoration.
An inlay is used when the damage is contained within the center of the chewing surface and does not involve the cusps. An onlay is used when the damage is more extensive and the tooth needs coverage over one or more cusps for added protection. Because an onlay covers more of the tooth, it is sometimes called a partial crown. We will examine your tooth and recommend the option that preserves the most natural structure.
A filling is placed directly into the tooth in a single visit and is best suited to smaller cavities. A crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth and is used when damage is more extensive. Inlays and onlays are made in a laboratory and bonded to the tooth, which gives them more strength than a large filling while removing less of the tooth than a crown. They are a good middle option for moderate damage.
You should not feel pain during the procedure. We numb the tooth and the surrounding area with a local anesthetic before we begin. Afterward, mild sensitivity or tenderness is common for a few days and usually fades on its own. If you notice lingering discomfort or your bite feels uneven, let our team know so we can help.
With proper care, many inlays and onlays last a decade or longer, and some last much longer. The lifespan depends on the material used, the location of the tooth, and your daily habits. Good oral hygiene, regular checkups, and avoiding very hard foods can all help the restoration last. If you grind your teeth, a custom night guard can add valuable protection.
Inlays and onlays typically take two visits. First, we prepare the tooth, take impressions, and place a temporary restoration. Second, we fit and bond your permanent restoration after it has been made by a dental laboratory. Our team will confirm the timeline when you schedule your appointment so you know what to expect.
Yes, tooth colored materials such as porcelain and ceramic can be matched closely to the shade of your natural teeth. Because the restoration is custom made, it fits the shape of your tooth and blends in with the surrounding smile. Many patients find that these restorations are difficult to notice once they are in place. We review the shade and appearance with you before bonding.
