Dental Inlays & Onlays - Winning Smile Dental & Aesthetic Clinic
What is a dental inlay?
A dental inlay is a type of restorative filling used to repair a tooth with moderate damage or decay, particularly damage to the centre or biting surface of the tooth, but not enough damage to require a full crown. An inlay can be thought of as a partial crown.
The inlay is a custom-made restoration, usually made from porcelain or resin, that fits into the grooves of the tooth. It does not cover the raised points of the tooth, which differentiates it from an onlay or crown.
An inlay is used when;
The damage to the tooth is too far gone for a regular filling but still structurally sound enough to avoid a crown.
Ideal for molars or premolars that need restoration.
Dental Inlays & Onlays - Winning Smile Dental & Aesthetic Clinic
What is a dental onlay?
A dental onlay is used to restore a damaged or decayed tooth when the tooth is too damaged for a filling or inlay, but does not require a full crown.
An onlay is more extensive than a filling or inlay due to the tooth removal required for preparation. However, it is still less invasive than a crown, as more of the natural tooth structure is preserved.
The onlay provides the tooth with the support it needs to function naturally while also replacing and repairing the lost tooth structure.
The onlay covers at least one cusp (the pointed parts of the tooth) as well as the centre used for chewing and biting. A large surface area is covered by the onlay, earning it the nickname ‘partial crown’. However, unlike crowns, onlays do not cover the entire tooth.
Onlays are appropriate for cases where durability and precise restoration of the tooth are required.
Am I suitable to get this treatment?
Like all dental treatments, the only way to know if you are a suitable candidate is to visit your dentist for an examination or consultation.
You may be suitable for an inlay or onlay if you have:
Moderate tooth decay or damage – appropriate when the tooth’s surface is affected, but the sides and roots are still solid.
Damage to back teeth – molars and premolars take most of the force when chewing, so a durable restoration like an inlay or onlay is ideal.
You may not be suitable for an inlay or onlay if you have:
Extensive tooth damage – in these cases, a crown may be more appropriate.
Severe decay – if decay reaches the pulp (nerve), root canal treatment followed by a crown may be required.
Weak or brittle teeth.
Poor oral hygiene – Patients with poor oral hygiene are at risk of decay or gum disease, which can compromise the effectiveness of restorations.
Ultimately, your dentist will advise whether an inlay or onlay is suitable for you.
You may be suitable for an inlay or onlay if you have:
Moderate tooth decay or damage – appropriate when the tooth’s surface is affected, but the sides and roots are still solid.
Damage to back teeth – molars and premolars take most of the force when chewing, so a durable restoration like an inlay or onlay is ideal.
You may not be suitable for an inlay or onlay if you have:
Extensive tooth damage – in these cases, a crown may be more appropriate.
Severe decay – if decay reaches the pulp (nerve), root canal treatment followed by a crown may be required.
Weak or brittle teeth.
Poor oral hygiene – Patients with poor oral hygiene are at risk of decay or gum disease, which can compromise the effectiveness of restorations.
Ultimately, your dentist will advise whether an inlay or onlay is suitable for you.
Dental Inlays & Onlays - Winning Smile Dental & Aesthetic Clinic
What is the difference between an inlay, onlay, and crown?
Inlay
Inlay
An inlay is a custom-made dental restoration used to restore moderate damage or decay to the surface or centre of the tooth. It is more durable than a traditional filling and can be useful when restoring the premolars and molars. These teeth experience heavy chewing forces and therefore need a durable solution for restoration. Inlays are minimally invasive, as they remove a relatively minor amount of healthy tooth. The inlay should last for at least 10 years with proper care.
Onlay
Onlay
An onlay is also a custom-made dental restoration used to restore moderate damage or decay to the surface or centre of the tooth. However, the onlay covers a larger area of the tooth than the inlay and is often referred to as a partial crown. Like inlays, onlays are durable in nature and are suitable for the back teeth (premolars and molars), which take a lot of chewing force. This restoration should last for 10–15 years with proper care.
Crown
Crown
A dental crown is a restoration that is placed over a broken or damaged tooth to restore its shape, function, and appearance. The crown completely covers the visible part of the tooth above the gum line, acting like a protective shell. Crowns are commonly used to restore teeth that are cracked, worn, heavily restored, or have undergone root canal treatment. Compared to inlays and onlays, crowns are more invasive in nature, as they remove more of the natural tooth. The crown functions like a natural tooth and can last 10–15 years with good care.
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Alternative treatments
In recent years, the use of alternative treatments has gained popularity among college students seeking non-traditional approaches to wellness and health. These alternative treatments encompass a wide range of practices, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, chiropractic care, meditation, and yoga, to name a few. While these treatments may not always have scientific backing, many students find them beneficial for managing stress, anxiety, and other health conditions.
There are alternatives to getting an inlay or onlay, however, not every alternative is suitable for every patient. The extent of the tooth damage/decay and goals for the treatment will determine if the alternatives are suitable for your individual case.
Alternatives to inlays and onlays include;
● Fillings
● Crowns
● Composite bonding
Each of these treatments have their own pros and cons. It is best to consult with your dentist to find the most appropriate treatment.
Alternatives to inlays and onlays include;
● Fillings
● Crowns
● Composite bonding
Each of these treatments have their own pros and cons. It is best to consult with your dentist to find the most appropriate treatment.
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Questions about Dental Check ups
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a dental inlay and a dental onlay?
Dental inlays and onlays are both restorative solutions that are used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. While they may seem similar, there are key differences between the two that are important to understand.
Dental inlays and onlays are both restorative solutions for moderate damage or decayed teeth, but they differ mainly in the extent of the coverage they provide. Both inlays and onlays are custom-made in a lab to ensure the best fit for your bite.
Dental inlay
A dental inlay is used when a smaller portion of the tooth needs to be repaired. It is typically placed within the grooves of the tooth and does not cover the entire chewing surface.
Dental onlay
A dental onlay is used when a larger portion of the tooth needs to be restored. Unlike an inlay, an onlay covers one or more cusps (raised points) of the tooth, extending to the chewing surface. Onlays can be thought of as a partial crown.
What materials are used in a dental onlay?
A dental onlay is made from durable materials to withstand chewing forces while matching the natural tooth’s appearance. Materials used for an onlay include:
Porcelain (ceramic). Porcelain is highly effective for restorations. The material closely mimics the colour and translucency of natural teeth, giving them a natural look.
Composite resin. Composite resin is tooth coloured and can be bonded straight onto the tooth. This material is less expensive but will wear down faster than porcelain onlays.
Gold. Gold is extremely durable and long-lasting. However, it is less common in modern dentistry because of its metallic appearance.
What materials are used in a dental inlay?
A dental inlay is made from durable materials to withstand chewing forces while matching the natural tooth’s appearance. Materials used for an inlay include:
Porcelain (ceramic). Porcelain is highly effective for restorations. The material closely mimics the colour and translucency of natural teeth, giving them a natural look.
Composite resin. Composite resin is tooth coloured and can be bonded straight onto the tooth. This material is less expensive but will wear down faster than porcelain inlays.
Gold. Gold is extremely durable and long-lasting. However, it is less common in modern dentistry because of its metallic appearance.
Pros and cons of inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are common procedures used to repair moderately damaged or decayed teeth. They have several advantages, but the drawbacks should also be considered.
Advantages
Minimally invasive. Less natural tooth structure is removed when preparing the tooth for inlays and onlays compared with crowns.
Durability. Inlays and onlays should last 10–15+ years with proper care.
Aesthetic. The materials used to make inlays and onlays match the natural tooth colour, making the smile visually appealing.
Precision fit. The inlay or onlay is made in a lab using a mould of the patient’s bite. This helps with the fit and reduces the risk of future decay or damage.
Drawbacks
Multiple visits. The inlay or onlay cannot be completed in one visit, as it must be prepared, fabricated, and fitted.
Cost. Inlays and onlays are more expensive than standard fillings as they factor in lab fabrication costs and use more durable materials.
Not suitable for severe cases. Inlays and onlays are not appropriate for all patients. A crown may be needed if the damage extends beyond the surface or centre of the tooth.
Risk of failure. Although they are durable, inlays and onlays can loosen, crack, or fall out.
Dental inlay and onlay cost
Inlays and onlays are more expensive than standard fillings. The cost reflects the materials used and the lab fabrication process. Patients should expect to pay at least €850. However, the price can increase depending on the complexity of the case.
