Inlays and onlays are dental restorations we use when a tooth is too damaged for a filling but does not need a full crown. The difference is determined by how much damage covers the tooth surface.
What Is a Dental Inlay?
An inlay is customized to sit within the raised points (cusps) of a back tooth. It fills the center of the chewing area without extending over the outer edges. Your dentist uses an inlay when the decay or damage is confined to that central area.
What Is a Dental Onlay?
An onlay covers more of the tooth. It extends over one or more of the cusps on the outer edges of the tooth. Your dentist uses an onlay when there is more extensive damage involving the sides or tips of the tooth, but not so advanced that it requires a full crown.
What Inlays and Onlays Have in Common
Both inlays and onlays are custom-made from porcelain, composite resin, or gold. We bond them directly to the tooth and design them to blend with the natural tooth structure. Both restorations preserve more of the healthy tooth than a dental crown.
Which Is Right for You?
Your dentist at Wellesley Dental determines which restoration will work for you based on where the damage is and how much healthy tooth structure remains. If you want to learn more about inlays and onlays or need to book a checkup, please call our Wellesley, MA, dental office at (781) 237-6511.