A dental onlay is a different treatment than you may be used to. It could be a more effective solution to your oral health and cosmetic needs than a filling or crown. Tooth decay and damage such as a chip, crack, or fracture can cause pain and lead to serious infections. These conditions can also affect your smile and appearance. Learning more about onlays can prepare you to make a good decision about your dental needs. You can also feel comfortable going into the procedure.

What are Tooth Inlays and Onlays?

Inlay is used when the cavity is too large for simple filling. Inlay is created as a single solid piece to fill the cavity. It is cemented on tooth.

Dental Inlays
Today, inlays are still used in the same situations, but the inlays can be made of a tooth-colored material such as ceramic/porcelain or special dental composite. Defective or unsightly “fillings” can be replaced by tooth-colored inlays and bonded to the tooth. This bonding process may actually improve the strength of the tooth and help seal the inlay to the tooth.

Dental Onlays
Onlays also fit inside the tooth, but extend onto the chewing surface of a back tooth to replace one or more cusps. In the past, onlays were made only of gold, but like inlays, more and more patients request a tooth-colored onlay. Making the onlay of ceramic/porcelain allows the restoration to be bonded to the tooth. This bonding process may actually improve the strength of the tooth and help seal the onlay to the tooth.

It is difficult to determine when inlays or onlays can be used instead of crowns or caps. Ask your prosthodontist if you are a candidate for a tooth-colored inlay or onlay.
Find a Prosthodontist Near You for Dental Inlays & Onlays
If you are interested in learning more about dental inlays & onlays and what procedure is best for you, get started today by finding a Prosthodontist near you today!