Inlays & Onlays

What is a dental inlay or onlay?

When more than half of a tooth’s biting surface is damaged, a dental inlay or onlay can be a great fix. These repairs are nearly identical and involve the same procedure. Both are made of porcelain, composite resin, or gold and are attached to the damaged or misshapen section of the tooth. An inlay is much like a typical dental filling and is used inside the tips of the tooth. An onlay is similar but a little more extensive as the reconstruction extends over one or more tips of the damaged tooth. An easy way to remember the difference is that an inlay lies inside a tooth’s tip while an onlay lies over one or more tips.

How does the dentist apply my inlays?

Regardless of which of the two methods your dentist recommends (inlay or onlay), two appointments are needed to complete the procedure. During the first appointment, the damaged or decaying section is removed. Then, to ensure the fit is correct, the dentist will take an oral cavity impression of the tooth and send it to a dental lab for fabrication. A temporary sealant is securely placed on the tooth, and the patient is sent home. Restrictions on what the patient can eat, drink, or do are minimal, but the patient should be aware that the temporary seal is not as strong or durable as their natural teeth.

At the second appointment, the dentist will remove the temporary sealant and test the newly fabricated inlay or onlay to ensure the correct fit. If the fit feels natural and accurate, the dentist will attach the piece to the tooth using resin and buff it to a smooth, natural finish. The finished look is completely natural and matches the patient’s teeth.

Considerations for inlays and onlays

In cases where damage to a tooth is not significant enough to require the placement of a dental crown, inlays offer an ideal alternative. Whereas traditional fillings reduce the durability of a tooth by up to fifty percent, inlays can increase the durability of a tooth by up to seventy-five percent. This strengthening factor is because the materials are bonded directly onto the tooth using special high-strength resins. As a result, inlays and onlays can last for up to thirty years.

Benefits of using inlays

When compared to typical dental fillings, inlays have the following benefits:

• Strong, durable, and long-lasting
• Shade matching for a natural appearance nearly indistinguishable from the surrounding teeth
• Better contours and contact points with other teeth due to the custom design
• Less post-procedure sensitivity around the tooth and gum

Potential drawbacks of using inlays

While inlays are a popular restorative and cosmetic procedure, there are a few potential drawbacks that patients should be aware of. These include:

• Higher total costs as a result of dental laboratory fabrication
• A longer process compared to fillings as two appointments are needed
• Over time, the inlay can become stained by certain foods or beverages, similar to natural teeth 

We do not recommend inlays and onlays for patients with poor oral hygiene habits or patients under 16. Young children’s teeth are still developing, and it may be difficult for a child to cope with a lengthy, invasive dental procedure. The fitting of the mold to make the inlay is a somewhat uncomfortable process, and patients should be able to tolerate an oral cavity impression.

Visit Alondra Dental Care

If you have more questions about inlays and outlays, contact us at Alondra Dental Care. We’ll gladly explain all of the options available to you for restoring and repairing damaged teeth. Make an appointment to meet with our experienced cosmetic dental staff. Our goal is to leave you with a strong, confident smile.