Difference Between Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are custom-made fillings which fit into decayed or damaged teeth. Inlays fit just inside the cusps (or bumps) of a tooth, similar to a composite filling. Onlays cover more surface area than inlays and also wrap over one or more edges of the tooth.
What materials can inlays and onlays be made from?
Inlays and onlays can be made from a number of different materials. They are typically made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Each material has particular advantages and disadvantages. Our team would be pleased to help you to select the material that is best for you.
How will my inlay or onlay be fitted?
Placing both inlays and onlays requires two appointments. During your first appointment, our team will remove any decay from your tooth and take impressions to send to the lab where the inlay or onlay will be prepared. At the end of this appointment, a temporary filling will be placed in your tooth.
During the second appointment, the temporary filling will first be removed and then your inlay or onlay will be fitted and bonded to your tooth.
Choosing Inlays & Onlays
Our team will examine the tooth requiring treatment and make a recommendation. An inlay will usually only be recommended if the decay or damage to the tooth structure is minimal. Since onlays are able to help support the structure of the tooth, onlays are typically recommended for teeth with more significant damage.