Inlays and Onlays

Dental inlays and onlays are a durable, long-lasting alternative to dental fillings. In cases where a dental filling just isn’t enough, your dentist may recommend an inlay or onlay to stop decay in its tracks and resume the normal function of your tooth.

What Are Inlays and Onlays?

Inlays and onlays are used when the cusps of the tooth have been affected by decay. These pieces are made of composite resin and are affixed to the tooth to restore its function. When proper guidelines are followed, inlays and onlays can last for up to 30 years.

The Difference Between Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are very similar restorative methods, but they differ slightly in their size, shape, and orientation. In cases where decay does not extend to the cusps themselves, inlays fill the area between the cusps. When cusps are affected by decay, an onlay is used to cover the affected cusp restoring the shape of the tooth.