Restorative Dentistry
Inlays & Onlays
Custom-made restorations for teeth with damage too large for a filling, which may preserve more natural tooth structure than a full crown.
What are inlays and onlays?
Inlays and onlays are restorations that are custom made to fit a prepared tooth, then bonded into place. They are often used on back teeth when decay or damage is too extensive for a regular filling, but enough healthy tooth remains that a full crown may not be necessary.
An inlay fits within the grooves of the chewing surface, between the raised points of the tooth known as cusps. An onlay extends over one or more of those cusps to rebuild a larger area. Onlays are sometimes called partial crowns.
Filling, inlay, onlay, or crown?
A filling is placed directly into the tooth in one visit and is well suited to small and moderate areas of damage. A crown covers the entire visible part of the tooth and is used when the tooth is badly broken down or needs full protection.
Inlays and onlays sit in between. Because they are made outside the mouth and then bonded in, they can restore a larger area than a filling while removing less healthy tooth than a crown typically requires. Your dentist will explain which option suits your tooth and why.
The treatment process
Inlay and onlay treatment usually involves two appointments:
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Exam and planning
Your dentist examines the tooth and takes X-rays to understand the extent of the damage and confirm that an inlay or onlay is appropriate.
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Preparing the tooth
The area is numbed with local anesthetic, then decay or an old filling is removed and the tooth is shaped to receive the restoration.
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Impression and temporary
An impression of the prepared tooth is taken so the restoration can be custom made, and a temporary restoration protects the tooth in the meantime.
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Bonding the final restoration
At your second visit, the temporary is removed and the inlay or onlay is checked for fit, bonded into place, adjusted for your bite, and polished.
When an inlay or onlay may be recommended
Your dentist may suggest an inlay or onlay in situations such as:
- A large, older filling that is breaking down and needs replacement
- Decay that is too extensive to repair well with a filling
- A broken or weakened cusp on a back tooth
- A chip or crack limited to part of the tooth
Every tooth is different. Only an exam and X-rays can confirm which type of restoration is right for you.
Caring for your inlay or onlay
Inlays and onlays are cared for just like natural teeth: brush twice a day, clean between your teeth daily, and keep up with regular checkups so your dentist can monitor the restoration. If you grind or clench your teeth, a custom night guard may help protect your teeth and dental work.
With good care, inlays and onlays can last many years, although no restoration lasts forever. How long yours lasts depends on factors such as its size, your bite, and your home care.
Restorative
- Restorative Overview
- Tooth-Colored Fillings
- Crowns & Bridges
- Dental Bridges
- Inlays & Onlays
Ask us about inlays and onlays
Call 780-944-2828 or book an appointment online.