Inlays and Onlays 

General Dentistry

What is it

In dentistry, inlays and onlays are a form of indirect restoration, which means they are made outside of the mouth as a single, solid piece that fits the specific size and shape of the cavity, and then cemented in place in the tooth.

This is an alternative to a direct restoration, made out of composite, amalgam or glass ionomer, that is built up within the mouth.

Inlays and onlays can be made from gold, porcelain or ceramic. Due to its tooth like colour, porcelain and ceramic provides better aesthetic value for the patient.

Inlays and onlays are used in molars or premolars, when the tooth has experienced too much damage to support a basic filling, but not so much damage that a crown is necessary.

What the differences

The key comparison between inlay and onlay is the amount and part of the tooth that they cover. An inlay will incorporate the pits and fissures of a tooth, mainly encompassing the chewing surface between the cusps. An onlay will involve one or more cusps being covered. If all cusps and the entire surface of the tooth is covered this is then known as a crown.

How it is done

It takes two consultations for the Inlays and Onlays treatment to be finished. On the first appointment, your dentist begins the procedure by numbing the area to be treated with under anesthesia. Decay in damage tooth is cleaned and prepared for the dental Inlay or Onlay Treatment.

On the second appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary fillings and ensure the onlay and Inlays fits correctly.  After examinations, your dentist will seal the inlay or onlay to the tooth with a strong resin adhesive. Follow by trimming and finishing to achieve a smooth and aesthetically satisfying completion.