Inlays and onlays are both types of fillings to repair a tooth that has a cavity. Both have traditionally been made out of gold, but in recent years porcelain and composite resin have become popular choices thanks to their ability to blend in with the natural tooth.

Inlays

An inlay is produced with the help of a dental impression and then inserted into place, unlike a composite filling that is made by filling the cavity with liquid material that hardens in place. Inlays typically are regarded as better than direct restorations thanks to their precision, ease of cleaning, resistance to forces, and more.

Onlays

An onlay is the same as an inlay except that it also covers the cusp or cusps (the top part of the tooth). The onlay is used to keep any surviving tooth structure when the alternative would be to use a crown, which would require the dentist to further reduce the remaining tooth to make room for the crown to be inserted.

Both inlays and onlays have been shown to last a very long time with proper oral hygiene routines. For both of these restoration options, the ability to keep as much of the original tooth as possible is a major reason for their use.

If you’d like to learn more about inlays and onlays or would like to make an appointment, please give us a call today at (352) 787-5919.