Inlays and Onlays

An onlay restoration is a custom made filling made of composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain. An onlay is sometimes also referred to as a partial crown. Porcelain onlays are made by a professional dental laboratory similar to crowns and are permanently cemented onto the tooth at our office. Reasons for onlay restorations include broken or fractured teeth, cosmetic enhancement, decayed teeth, fractured fillings, and large fillings.

Onlays can be utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma. If applicable, onlays are an ideal alternative to crowns (caps) because less tooth structure is removed in their preparation. They are essentially identical to inlays with the exception that one or more of the chewing cusps have also been affected and need to be included in the restoration. As with most dental restorations, onlays are not always permanent and may someday require replacement. They are highly durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

An inlay restoration is a custom made filling made of composite material, gold, or tooth-colored porcelain. It is made by a professional dental laboratory and is permanently cemented into the tooth.

Inlays can be utilized to conservatively repair teeth that have large defective fillings or have been damaged by decay or trauma and are an ideal alternative to conventional silver and composite fillings.

Similar to crowns, both onlay and inlay procedures usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate impressions (molds) that will be used to create your custom and a temporary restoration.

Regarding all tooth restorations, you will receive care instruction at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, a proper diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new filling, crown, bridge, implant restoration, or filling.