What are Inlays and Onlays? Repairing Damaged Teeth with Durable Solutions

When it comes to repairing damaged teeth, you’ve probably heard of fillings and crowns. But have you ever considered inlays and onlays? These lesser-known dental restorations are a fantastic middle ground for treating teeth that are too damaged for a simple filling but don’t yet need a full crown.

Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations designed to repair and strengthen teeth while preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. Made from durable materials like porcelain, composite resin, or even gold, they’re crafted to fit perfectly into your tooth, restoring its shape, function, and appearance.

Whether you’re dealing with significant decay, a cracked tooth, or damage that’s too extensive for a filling, inlays and onlays offer a conservative yet effective solution. They’re durable, long-lasting, and blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them a popular choice for patients looking to restore their smile without compromising their oral health.

What are Inlays and Onlays?

If you’ve ever had a cavity or a damaged tooth, you’re probably familiar with fillings and crowns. But there’s another option that often flies under the radar: inlays and onlays. These custom-made restorations are designed to repair teeth that are too damaged for a simple filling but don’t yet need a full crown.

Inlays vs. Onlays

Inlays and onlays are both types of indirect fillings, meaning they’re created in a dental lab and then bonded to your tooth during a follow-up visit. They’re typically made from durable materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold, ensuring they’re strong enough to withstand daily wear and tear while looking natural.

What is an Inlay?

An inlay is used to repair damage that’s confined to the center of your tooth, within the cusps (the pointed edges of your teeth). It’s like a precision puzzle piece that fits perfectly into the damaged area, restoring the tooth’s shape and function.

What is an Onlay?

An onlay, on the other hand, is used when the damage extends beyond the cusps to one or more of the tooth’s chewing surfaces. It’s a bit more extensive than an inlay but still more conservative than a crown, as it preserves more of your natural tooth structure.

Both inlays and onlays are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result. They’re a great option for patients who want to repair their teeth without sacrificing too much of the healthy tooth structure.

When Might You Need Inlays or Onlays?

Inlays and onlays can become necessary to restore a damaged tooth. The level of decay determines which option is best. Here is when your dentist might recommend each.

Tooth Decay

Cavities happen. When decay is too extensive for a regular filling, but not severe enough to require a dental crown, your dentist might discuss inlays and onlays. This is common and often preferred for long-lasting results.

It’s very common to want restorations that look natural. Restoring the shape of a tooth can also improve your self-esteem.

Addressing decay concerns improves good oral health.

Fractured Teeth

Accidents happen, and teeth can crack or chip. If the damage isn’t severe enough for a crown, an onlay can restore the tooth’s shape and function.

It reinforces the tooth, preventing future problems. This also restores confidence with a nice smile.

If a large filling has weakened a tooth, an inlay or onlay can offer better support. This procedure should greatly improve oral health.

Insufficient Tooth Structure for a Filling

Sometimes, a tooth has lost too much structure to hold a filling securely. Inlays and onlays offer a stronger, more durable solution that fits snugly into the prepared space.

A Conservative Alternative to Crowns

If your tooth doesn’t need a full crown but requires more than a filling, inlays and onlays provide a middle ground. They’re less invasive than crowns, as they preserve more of your natural tooth, which is always a win for your long-term oral health.

Inlays and onlays are all about balance—they repair damage effectively while keeping as much of your natural tooth intact as possible.

Materials Used for Inlays and Onlays

There are a few different materials dentists can use.

Porcelain Inlays and Onlays

Porcelain is a top choice for many because it closely matches natural tooth color. These tooth-colored ceramic restorations are created in a lab.

Your dentist bonds them to your tooth, making them look natural. A dentist could use CADCAM, a digital technology.

Using technology creates a close fit in one visit. Making this porcelain option within a dental laboratory setting would require two visits.

Gold Inlays and Onlays

Gold has been a reliable dental material for years. Although they might not be as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain, gold inlays and onlays are very durable.

Gold was commonly the only material used in the past. It doesn’t tarnish, and a dental inlay made of this material is very strong.

Composite Resin Inlays and Onlays

Composite material is another tooth-colored option. It’s not quite as durable as porcelain or gold.

It’s a good middle-ground for those wanting a natural look on a budget. Tooth inlays made of composite resin blend in well with your teeth.

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays

Choosing the right dental restoration can feel overwhelming, but inlays and onlays offer a unique set of advantages that make them a standout option for many patients. Here’s why they might be the perfect choice for you:

Durability and Longevity

Inlays and onlays are made from strong materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold, making them highly durable. With proper care, they can last for decades, often outlasting traditional fillings.

Natural Appearance

Custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, inlays and onlays blend seamlessly into your smile. No one will be able to tell you’ve had dental work done!

Preservation of Healthy Tooth Structure

Unlike crowns, which require removing a significant portion of the tooth, inlays and onlays are more conservative. They target only the damaged area, leaving the rest of your healthy tooth intact.

Improved Oral Health and Bite Function

By restoring the shape and strength of your tooth, inlays and onlays help improve your bite and overall oral health. They also prevent further damage by sealing off vulnerable areas from bacteria.

Resistance to Wear and Tear

Thanks to their strong materials and precise fit, inlays and onlays are highly resistant to staining, cracking, and wear, making them a reliable long-term solution.

How Are Inlays and Onlays Placed?

The process of getting inlays and onlays might sound complex, but it’s actually straightforward and typically completed in just two visits. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect:

The Preparation Phase

Consultation and Examination: Your dentist will first examine your tooth to determine if an inlay or onlay is the best solution. X-rays or scans may be taken to assess the extent of the damage.

• Tooth Preparation: If an inlay or onlay is recommended, your dentist will remove any decay or damaged areas from the tooth. The tooth is then cleaned and shaped to prepare it for restoration.
• Impressions: An impression or digital scan of your tooth is taken and sent to a dental lab, where your custom inlay or onlay will be crafted.
• Temporary Restoration: While your permanent restoration is being made, your dentist may place a temporary filling to protect the tooth.

The Placement Phase

• Fitting the Restoration: During your second visit, your dentist will remove the temporary filling and check the fit of your custom inlay or onlay. Adjustments are made to ensure it fits perfectly.
• Bonding the Restoration: Once the fit is confirmed, the inlay or onlay is securely bonded to your tooth using a strong dental adhesive.
• Polishing and Final Touches: The restoration is polished to match the sheen of your natural teeth, and your bite is checked to ensure comfort and functionality.

Caring for Your Inlays and Onlays

Like your natural teeth, inlays and onlays need proper care. Maintaining their function helps prevent recurring problems.

Care Step	Explanation
Brush your teeth	Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush removes bacteria and plaque. Brushing reduces future issues such as gum disease or tooth decay.
Floss Daily	Flossing gets to hard-to-reach places. Be sure to floss around areas with restorations like inlays or onlays.
Regular Dental Check-ups	Maintain regular professional cleanings and appointments. Catching problems early saves on costs.

These regular checkups help catch issues so they do not cause a greater level of concern.

Inlays and Onlays Compared to Other Restorations

Your dentist can discuss the unique options each patient might require. Comparing fillings, inlays, onlays, or crowns can help in decision-making.

Inlays/Onlays vs. Fillings

Fillings: Best for small cavities or minor damage. They’re quick and affordable but may not be strong enough for larger areas of decay.

Inlays/Onlays: Ideal for moderate damage that’s too extensive for a filling but not severe enough for a crown. They’re more durable and long-lasting than fillings.

Inlays/Onlays vs. Crowns

Crowns: Used when a tooth is severely damaged or weakened. Crowns cover the entire tooth but require removing more of the natural tooth structure.

Inlays/Onlays: A more conservative option that preserves more of your natural tooth while still providing strength and protection.

Inlays/Onlays vs. Veneers

Veneers: Primarily used for cosmetic improvements, like fixing chips, gaps, or discoloration. They cover the front surface of the tooth.

Inlays/Onlays: Focus on restoring function and structure to damaged teeth, making them a better choice for repairing decay or fractures.

Ready to Restore Your Smile? Inlays and Onlays Could Be the Answer

Inlays and onlays are more than just dental restorations—they’re a smart, conservative way to repair damaged teeth while preserving your natural smile. Whether you’re dealing with decay, cracks, or weakened teeth, these custom-made solutions offer durability, functionality, and a seamless appearance that blends perfectly with your natural teeth.

The process is straightforward, the results are long-lasting, and the benefits are clear: inlays and onlays protect your teeth, improve your bite, and give you the confidence to smile without hesitation. Plus, with proper care, they can serve you well for decades to come.

Your Smile Deserves the Best—Let’s Make It Happen!

Ready to give your smile the care it deserves? At Image Dental, we specialize in custom inlays and onlays that restore your teeth with precision and care. Whether you’re fixing decay, cracks, or damage, our team is here to create a solution that’s as unique as your smile.

Don’t wait to take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you. Book now online or call us at (209) 955-1500 and let’s bring your smile back to life!