Inlays & Onlays

When more than half of a tooth’s biting surface is damaged, inlays and onlays are often the ideal solution to restore its strength, function, and appearance.

What Are Dental Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are custom restorations made from porcelain, gold, or composite resin, bonded directly to the damaged area of a tooth. An inlay is similar to a filling and fits within the cusps (the raised edges) of the tooth, while an onlay extends beyond one or more cusps, covering a larger portion of the tooth.

Traditionally, gold has been a preferred material due to its durability, but porcelain has become increasingly popular because of its strength and ability to match the natural color of your teeth.

How Are Inlays and Onlays Applied?

First Appointment:

• Drs. Allen or Schwarz will remove any decay or old filling material and prepare the tooth for the restoration.
• An impression of your tooth will be taken and sent to a dental lab for fabrication of your custom inlay or onlay.
• A temporary sealant is applied to protect the tooth until your next visit.

Second Appointment:

• The temporary sealant is removed, and the fit and appearance of the inlay or onlay are carefully checked.
• If everything is perfect, the restoration is bonded to the tooth using a strong resin and polished for a smooth, natural finish.

Why Choose Inlays and Onlays?

• Increased Strength: Unlike traditional fillings, which can reduce the strength of a natural tooth by up to 50%, inlays and onlays can increase tooth strength by up to 75%.
• Durability: With proper care, they can last 10 to 30 years.
• Conservative Alternative to Crowns: In cases where the damage doesn’t warrant a full dental crown, onlays offer an excellent, less invasive alternative.