Inlays and onlays are tooth restoration methods that are used to repair moderately damaged teeth. These treatments are most commonly used when a tooth cannot be repaired with a regular filling, but it is not so damaged that it requires a crown. After being treated with an inlay or onlay, a tooth will have its function and appearance restored, and the majority of its original structure and integrity will be kept intact.
A dental inlay consists of filling material that is bonded to the inner portion of a tooth’s chewing surface. An inlay will not cover any of the cusps of the tooth, instead only covering the area inside these points. Our experts recommend the use of inlays when a tooth cannot be adequately repaired with a standard filling, but a full dental crown is not needed.
An onlay is differentiated from an inlay in that it will cover one or more of the tooth’s cusps. These points generally represent where the onlay is bonded to the tooth. Sometimes, an onlay will cover the entire chewing surface of a tooth. In most cases, a tooth that has been repaired with an onlay will be stronger than before. This makes dental onlays a good option for restoring moderately damaged teeth.
If you would like to learn more about how inlays or onlays can be used to restore your damaged teeth, please call us at (561) 264-2264 to schedule an appointment.
